Topical regional neuro-affective therapy with caryophyllene

ABSTRACT

A method of treating a disease state or condition in humans via topical brainstem afferent stimulation therapy via the administration of caryophyllene to the back of the neck of a human patient to provide regional neuro-affective therapy is disclosed. In certain embodiments, the drugs are incorporated into a pharmaceutically acceptable topical carrier, e.g., a cream, gel, lotion or foam.

This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 15/238,118, filed Aug. 16, 2016, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to topical regional neuro-affective therapy (“TRNA THERAPY”) with a caryophyllene(s). This is accomplished via administration of effective amounts of these agents on the back of the neck.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The approximate 2½ pound human brain is comprised of the most complex material known to man. The neuron, the primary functional cell of the nervous system, operates on the basis of electrical impulses that result in the release of neurochemical substances (neurotransmitters) at specific receptors: dopamine, serotonin, acetylcholine, norepinephrine, gamma-amino butyric acid (GABA), and many others. There are estimated to be 80-100 billion (10 times the world population) neurons in the average human brain. These neurons, in turn, make 200-300 billion coded connections with other neurons to accomplish the complex tasks of the human body.

The brainstem serves as the vital pathway for relay and processing of neural impulses flowing continuously between the brain and the rest of the body. It is about the size of the thumb and contains the most dense and complicated wiring systems in the human body. In addition to the axons and dendrites (wires) that carry nerve impulses, the brainstem also contains critical nuclei that function as electrical generators and relays. Some of the nuclei are related to cranial nerve function while others serve as generators and impulse centers for pain perception, the autonomic system “fight or flight” response, wakefulness and alertness, as well as cardio-respiratory and related autonomic functions.

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is involved in regulating a variety of physiological processes including appetite, pain and pleasure sensation, immune system, mood, and memory. Endocannabinoid receptors in the brain interact with cannabinoids from different sources, including (endocannabinoids (brain derived, e.g., from foods (Omega-3s and Omega-6s); phytocannabinoids (plant derived, e.g., from buds, tinctures, extracts, including tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiol (CBD), cannabinol (CBN), etc.); and synthetic cannabinoids (such as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)). Cannabinoids are a diverse class of chemical compounds that act on cannabinoid receptors on cells and influence neurotransmitter release in brain. These receptor proteins include endocannabinoids produced naturally in humans and animals, phytocannabinoids in cannabis and some other plants, and chemically manufactured synthetic cannabinoids. Phytocannabinoid Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the primary psychoactive compound of cannabis. Cannabidiol (CBD) is another major constituent of the plant, and comprises up to 40% extracts of plant resin. At least 85 different cannabinoids isolated from cannabis exhibit varied effects.

The medical value of cannabis or marijuana has been recognized for thousands of years. In the United States, 1800's to 1930's, medical cannabis was widely marketed and used, promoted by traditional drug companies. In 1890, Parke-Davis and Eli-Lilly joint-ventured to breed Cannabis Americana in Greenfield, Ind. Despite benefit in treating diverse conditions, potential of cannabis for psychoactive effects created much mis-information and labeling as “gateway drug.” There is no class of compound with more controversy and stigma than cannabis. In 1937, US Congress enacted cannabis prohibition, soon after alcohol prohibition was lifted.

There is no greater example of a “double-edged sword” in medical therapeutics than medical marijuana. While benefits for treating symptoms of diverse neurologic and psychiatric conditions have been known and practiced by ancient civilizations for thousands of years, marijuana's psychoactive effects have also led to abuse and labeling as a “gateway drug” for more addictive compounds. There is no class of therapeutic compounds with more controversy and stigma than cannabinoids, active components of the cannabis plant.

The U.S. Government has indicated there is no medical benefit for marijuana and classified it Controlled Substance Category 1, as heroin. It is considered by federal law, illegal to possess or use cannabis and its associated products. However, increasing number of states have challenged this position and legalized cannabis within their territories with varying restrictions and conditions for use. Even then, within individual states, such as in Colorado, marijuana laws vary greatly from county to county.

Although defined under U.S. federal law as having no medical use, U.S. Pat. No. 6,630,507 is held by the United States Department of Health and Human Services, covering use of cannabinoids for treating a wide range of diseases. It is directed to a method of treating diseases caused by oxidative stress comprising administering a therapeutically effective amount of a cannabinoid (e.g., cannabidiol) that has substantially no binding to the NMDA receptor to a subject who has a disease caused by oxidative stress.

Previously, the assignee has filed for patent protection for its inventions related to topical regional neuro-affective therapy (“TRNA THERAPY”) with cannabinoids, such as cannabidiol (CBD). This is accomplished via administration of effective amounts of these agents on the back of the neck. That technology is covered, e.g., by U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/058,946, filed Mar. 2, 2016 (entitled “Topical Regional Neuro-Affective Therapy with Cannabinoids”) and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/228,690 filed Aug. 4, 2016 (entitled “Topical Regional Neuro-Affective Therapy with Cannabinoid Combination Products”), by of which are hereby encompassed by reference.

Caryophyllene acts on same cannabinoid receptors as “medical marijuana” and CBD, medical component of cannabis. Unlike cannabis or marijuana, caryophyllene is unregulated and completely legal in all states.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is an object of the invention to provide a topical formulation which includes one or more agents which act on same cannabinoid receptors as “medical marijuana” and CBD (the medical component of cannabis), but which (unlike cannabis or marijuana) is unregulated and completely legal in the United States.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a method of treatment in humans with topical afferent neural activation therapy via the regional administration of one or more caryophyllene(s) useful for the treatment of such diseases or conditions that may be treated via such therapy.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a method for the treatment of seizures; encephalopathy, including lethargy, focus/attentional problems, and cognitive issues: spasticity; weakness; pain, including radiculopathy and neuropathy; numbness; anxiety and other mood disorders; hypertension; Parkinson's disease; insomnia; as well as any other disease or condition that may be treated with a cannabinoid.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a method for the treatment of seizures; epilepsy; encephalopathy, including lethargy, focus/attentional problems, and cognitive issues; spasticity; weakness (e.g., muscle weakness); pain, including radiculopathy and neuropathy, lower back pain, and fibromyalgia; numbness and/or tingling; anxiety and other mood disorders; hypertension and autonomic dysfunction; Parkinson's disease and tremors; insomnia; Bell's palsy and facial nerve dysfunction; glaucoma, AIDS; cancer; PTSD; trigeminal neuralgia; hemi-facial spasms; Autism/Asperger's; attention Deficit Disorder and Hyperactivity; social isolation; occipital neuralgia; TMJ dysfunction related symptoms; cognitive problems including memory disturbance; headaches (migraine and tension); peripheral neuropathy; as well as other conditions or disease states mentioned herein or any other disease or condition that may be treated with a cannabinoid.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a method for the treatment of anxiety disorder; attention deficit disorder/poor focus; social isolation/autism-related symptoms; muscle tension and spasm; seizures and associated encephalopathy; headache; peripheral neuropathic pain and symptoms thereof; tinnitus/ringing in ears; sinus congestion; skin inflammatory conditions such as actinic keratosis; torticollis, dystonia; arthritis related pain and decreased range of motion; dizziness and light-headedness.

The above objects and others are attained by virtue of the present invention, which is directed in part to a method of treating a disease state or condition in a human patient via topical regional neuro-affective (TRNA) or regional neuro-affective (RNA) therapy via administration of caryophyllene at the back of the neck region, or the back of the neck, e.g., at the hairline (BONATH). In certain embodiments, the method further includes administration of a second therapeutically active agent at the back of the neck at the hairline in close proximity to and under or on the area of skin above the brain stem to provide regional neuro-affective therapy to the human patient. In certain preferred embodiments, the caryophyllene is beta-caryophyllene.

In certain preferred embodiments, the caryophyllene is incorporated into a pharmaceutically acceptable topical formulation along with a second therapeutically active agent (e.g., as described herein). In certain preferred embodiments, the caryophyllene in the topical pharmaceutical formulation are at a concentration from about 0.3% to about 20%, by weight. In certain embodiments, a unit dose of the topical formulation includes from about 3 mg to about 200 mg caryophyllene. In certain preferred embodiments, a unit dose of the topical pharmaceutical formulation comprises from about 10 mg to about 50 mg caryophyllene, and most preferably from about 15 mg to about 30 mg caryophyllene.

In certain preferred embodiments, the pharmaceutically acceptable topical formulation comprises a topical aqueous-based carrier, with an optional penetration enhancer.

In certain preferred embodiments, the method further comprises applying a sufficient amount of the topical pharmaceutical formulation to the back of the neck region of the human patient such that the onset of a therapeutic effect occurs in less than about 30 minutes, or in less than 15 minutes. The topical pharmaceutical formulation may be administered (applied to the back of the neck region) on a once a day basis, or on a twice a day basis, a three times a day basis, or on a four times a day basis.

In certain embodiments, the patient is treated for a condition or disease state selected from the group consisting of anxiety disorder; attention deficit disorder/poor focus; social isolation/autism-related symptoms; muscle tension and spasm; seizures and associated encephalopathy; headache; peripheral neuropathic pain and symptoms thereof; tinnitus/ringing in ears; sinus congestion; skin inflammatory conditions such as actinic keratosis; torticollis, dystonia; arthritis related pain and decreased range of motion; dizziness and light-headedness.

In certain embodiments, the patient is treated for a condition or disease state selected from the group consisting of seizures, encephalopathy, spasticity, weakness, pain, numbness, anxiety, hypertension, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, and insomnia. In other embodiments, wherein the patient is treated for a condition selected from the group consisting of lethargy, focus/attentional problems, and cognitive issues. In other embodiments, the patient is treated for a condition selected from the group consisting of radiculopathy and neuropathy. In yet other embodiments, the patient is treated for numbness, or a mood disorder.

In certain embodiments, the patient is treated for a condition or disease state selected from the group consisting of ADD; ADHD; Anxiety Disorder; Cervical Spondylosis; Disc Herniations; Muscle Spasms; Central Pain Syndrome; Central Hypertension; acute pain; peripheral neuropathic pain; R.N. with Chronic Anxiety Disorder; PTSD; MS; seizures; headache; encephalopathy; lethargy; decreased spontaneity; gait disorder; autism; poor focus; tinnitus; myasthenia gravis; torticollis; chronic or acute sinus congestion; Eustachian tube blockage; fibromyalgia; Parkinson's disease; migraine; head or face injury; cervical laminectomy; thoracic laminectomy; lumbar laminectomy; autism; cervical fusion; cerebral palsy; spastic quadriparesis; vertebral artery dissection; posterior fossa stroke: hemiparesis; nystagmus; opsillopsia; dysarthria; failed back syndrome; neonatal nuchal cord syndrome; chronic mood disorder; insomnia; tardive dyskinesia; cervical and/or thoracic compression fracture; lumbar radiculopathy; impulsivity; trigeminal neuralgia; cervical spondylosis; muscle tension headaches; ischemic cerebrovascular disease; eye twitching; lupus cerebritis; normal pressure hydrocephalus; bi-polar affective disorder; depression; and fatigue.

In certain embodiments, the method further comprises further comprises topically administering at the back of the neck region (e.g., BONATH) together with, sequentially, or simultaneously but in separate formulations, an additional drug(s) selected from the group consisting of: a cannabinoid(s), an anti-epileptic, an anxiolytic, a neuroleptic, an anti-psychotic, an analgesic, an anti-inflammatory, an anti-Parkinson's disease/syndrome drug, a drug for the treatment of dystonia, a drug for the treatment of spastic conditions, a drug for the treatment of benign essential/familial tremor, a drug for the treatment of tremor related to MS, a drug for the treatment of chronic encepahalopathies, a drug for the treatment of congenital CNS degeneration conditions/cerebral palsy, a drug for the treatment of cerebellar degeneration syndromes, a drug for the treatment of neuropathic and/or neurogenic pain, a drug for appetite suppression, a drug for neurodegenerative conditions, a drug for the treatment of multiple sclerosis, a drug for the treatment of insomnia, a drug for the treatment of fatigue, a drug for the treatment of vertigo, nausea and/or dizziness, a drug for the treatment of writer's cramp and restless leg syndrome, other drugs which can beneficially be added to the treatment in order to provide an additive or synergistic effect with respect to treating the patient's disease state or condition; and a combination of any of the foregoing. In certain embodiments, the additional drug(s) is a dopamine agonist selected from the group consisting of apomorphine, pramipexole, ropinirole, bromocriptine, cabergoline, pergolide, rotigotine, entacapone, tocapone, seligiline, dopamine, and mixtures of any of the foregoing. In other embodiments, the disease state or condition is Parkinson's disease and/or related syndromes/diseases. In other embodiments, the additional drug(s) is selected from the group consisting of the drug is a dopamine agonist, COMT inhibitors, MAO-B inhibitors, and mixtures of any of the foregoing. In other embodiments, the additional drug(s) is an anti-epileptic drug selected from the group consisting of Valproic acid, Leviteracetem, Lamotrigene, Topiramate, Pregabalin, Gabapentin, Carbamazepine, Oxcarbazepine, Phenobarbital and other barbiturates, Tiagabine, Retigabine, Lacosamide, Perampanel, and mixtures of any of the foregoing; or the additional drug(s) is an anxiolytic, a neuroleptic and/or an antipsychotic; or the additional drug(s) is an analgesic and/or an anti-inflammatory; or the additional drug(s) is used in the treatment of neuropathic and/or neurogenic pain; or the additional drug(s) is for multiple sclerosis; or the additional drug(s) is for insomnia; or the additional drug(s) is for fatigue; or the additional drug(s) is for vertigo, nausea and/or dizziness; or the additional drug(s) is for writer's cramp and restless leg syndrome; or the additional drug(s) is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA), a tetracyclic antidepressant, or an atypical antipsychotic.

In certain preferred embodiments, the drug is formulated in a pharmaceutically acceptable immediate release topical carrier. In certain preferred embodiments, the topical carrier is aqueous based, and may be a cream or gel.

In certain preferred embodiments, the method further comprises formulating caryophyllene in a pharmaceutically acceptable immediate release aqueous-based carrier. In other embodiments, the caryophyllene is administered in a topical pharmaceutical formulation comprising liposomes.

In certain preferred embodiments where the caryophyllene is administered in a topical pharmaceutical formulation, the method further comprises applying a sufficient amount to the back of the neck region, e.g., BONATH of the human patient such that the onset of clinical effect occurs in less than about 30 minutes, and in certain preferred embodiments in less than about 15 minutes.

In certain preferred embodiments, the caryophyllene is incorporated into a sustained release transdermal delivery system which is capable of delivering from about 10 mg to about 1000 mg through the skin of a human patient over a 24 hour period, the transdermal delivery system being capable of delivering the caryophyllene in such amounts for a time period from about 1 to about 7 days.

In certain embodiments, the caryophyllene is administered via implantation or injection at the BONATH, or is administered via injection in an immediate release pharmaceutically acceptable carrier for injection. In certain embodiments, the caryophyllene is administered via injection or implantation in a controlled release carrier to provide a prolonged effect of the caryophyllene. In certain embodiments, the caryophyllene is administered to create a depot under the skin at the BONATH.

Certain embodiments of the invention are directed to a topical formulation comprising a a pharmaceutically acceptable aqueous-based carrier, the caryophyllene being incorporated into the carrier in at least one unit dose comprising from about 0.25 mg to about 80 mg caryophyllene. Preferably, when applied in a unit dose to the back of the neck of the human patient the topical formulation provides an onset of clinical effect occurs in less than about 30 minutes.

The invention is also directed to a topical formulation, comprising caryophyllene in a formulation suitable for administration at the back of the neck at the hairline in close proximity to and under or on the area of skin above the brain stem of a human patient to provide regional neuro-affective therapy to the patient. The topical formulation may be prepared as an immediate, controlled or sustained release formulation.

The drug formulations useful in the present invention may be in a form selected from a topical formulation (e.g, a cream, ointment or gel); a transdermal device; or an implantable or injectable formulation.

The invention is further directed to the use of caryophyllene in the preparation of a medicament for providing regional neuro-affective therapy to a human patient, wherein the drug is administered at the back of the neck at the hairline in close proximity to and under or on the area of skin above the brain stem to provide regional neuro-affective therapy to the patient.

In certain embodiments, caryophyllene is applied to the posterior cervical region of the human in order to initiate the brainstem afferent stimulation therapy. Most preferably, the topical formulation or topical therapeutic system is applied to the back of the neck, preferably in close proximity to or on the area of skin above the brain stem.

In other embodiments, caryophyllene is administered via implantation or injection at the back of the neck, e.g., on the back of the neck at the hairline (BONATH). In such embodiments, the therapy is accomplished via the availability of the drug(s) at the free nerve endings under the epidermis. In such embodiments, the drug may be incorporated into an implantation device or may be incorporated into a carrier such as a gel or matrix that will provide a prolonged release/effect of the caryophyllene at the site. The carrier may be a hydrophilic or hydrophobic material, a colloidal material, and may be in a state ranging from a viscous liquid to a solid polymeric insert.

Certain embodiments of the invention are directed to a method of treatment, comprising delivering caryophyllene through regional neuro-affective therapy by application as a cream/gel or a sustained release patch applied at the back of the neck, or via administration under the skin at the back of the neck via an implantable or injectable drug formulation or device.

In certain embodiments, the method further provides for a therapeutically effective treatment through topical regional neuro-affective (TRNA) therapy by application of a drug(s) (e.g., caryophyllene) in a cream/gel or a sustained release patch applied at the back of the neck without the side-effects and the other draw-backs of the current injection method.

In certain preferred embodiments, the caryophyllene is administered at the back of the neck (e.g., BONATH) in an immediate release topical formulation in a dose comprising from about 3 mg to about 200 mg caryophyllene, and in certain embodiments more preferably from about 10 to about 50 mg caryophyllene. In certain other embodiments, the immediate release topical formulation includes from about 15 mg to about 30 mg caryophyllene.

In certain preferred embodiments the caryophyllene comprises or consists of β-caryophyllene.

In certain preferred embodiments, the method of treatment further comprises administering caryophyllene to other areas of the spine and/or peripheral nerves in addition to administration on or at the back of the neck, in order to provide an additive or synergistic effect and further modulate afferent neural input to the brain to affect efferent outflow for relief of symptoms.

In certain preferred embodiments, the method of treatment further comprises topically administering at the back of the neck together with, sequentially, or simultaneously but in separate formulations, one or more additional active agents (“drugs”) which may be chosen from the following: a cannabinoid(s), an anti-epileptic, an anxiolytic, a neuroleptic, an anti-psychotic, an analgesic, an anti-inflammatory, an anti-Parkinson's disease/syndrome drug, a drug for the treatment of dystonia, a drug for the treatment of spastic conditions, a drug for the treatment of benign essential/familial tremor, a drug for the treatment of tremor related to MS, a drug for the treatment of chronic encephalopathies, a drug for the treatment of congenital CNS degeneration conditions/cerebral palsy, a drug for the treatment of cerebellar degeneration syndromes, a drug for the treatment of neuropathic and/or neurogenic pain, a drug for appetite suppression, a drug for neurodegenerative conditions, a drug for the treatment of multiple sclerosis, a drug for the treatment of insomnia, a drug for the treatment of fatigue, a drug for the treatment of vertigo, nausea and/or dizziness, a drug for the treatment of writer's cramp and restless leg syndrome, and other drugs which can beneficially be added to the treatment in order to provide an additive or synergistic effect with respect to treating the patient's disease state or condition. In certain embodiments, for example, wherein the condition is insomnia and the second therapeutically active drug is melatonin; or the condition is ADD/ADHD and the second therapeutically active drug is phentermine; or the condition is Tourette's and the second therapeutically active drugs is phentermine; or the condition is DPN and the second therapeutically active drug is 4-AP; or the condition is a peripheral neuropathic condition and the second therapeutically active drug is 4-AP; or the condition is spasticity and/or spasms and the second therapeutically active drug is 4-AP; or the condition is migraine and/or tension headache and the second therapeutically active drug is a serotonin agonist; or the condition is Parkinson's disease, tremors, and/or dystonia and the second therapeutically active agent is apomorphine. In certain embodiments the method further comprises administering at the same site a third therapeutically active drug which is a skeletal muscle relaxant. In certain embodiments, in addition to caryophyllene, a serotonin agonist (e.g, sumatriptan) and a skeletal muscle relaxant (e.g., tizanidine) are administered for headache, migraine, or tension headache or the like.

For purposes of the present invention, the term “hack of the neck” or “hack of the neck region” is intended to encompass the entire area or region extending from (behind) one ear to the other ear of the human patient and from the back of the head (i.e., above the neck) to below the hairline at the back of the neck of the human patient, i.e., extending caudally from the back of the head at the hairline (“BONATH”) all the way down to the posterior extent of the back of the neck to the cervico-thoracic junction, located at C7 posterior spinous process (the “vertebra prominens”) of the human patient.

For purposes of the present invention, a “topical formulation” includes, for example, ointments, creams, lotions, pastes, gels, etc., which releases one or more drugs (e.g., cannabinoid drug(s)s) at a predetermined rate over a defined period of time to a defined site of application.

For purposes of the present invention, an “injectable” formulation includes, for example, an injectable solution, suspension, gel or the like and may be in immediate release form or may provide a controlled or sustained release of the drug at the site of administration.

For purposes of the present invention, the term “immediate release” means that the caryophyllene is administered at the site of application (e.g., the back of the neck) and is available for immediate absorption at the site of application. In other words, the term “immediate release” is meant to convey in terms of a topical formulation the fact that there is nothing in the formulation (e.g., a sustained release carrier) that would delay or slow the availability of the drug at the site of application (in contrast to, e.g., a transdermal device or patch).

For purposes of the present invention, an “implantable” formulation includes, for example, a solid, semisolid or liquid drug formulation which can be administered at the back of the neck (e.g., BONATH) either via injection and/or via surgical implantation. The solid may comprise microspheres, microcapsules, pellets, discs, and the like. The implantable formulations of the invention may provide a controlled or sustained release of the drug at the site of administration.

For purposes of the present invention, a “transdermal therapeutic system” is defined as a drug-containing device (including e.g., patch, disc, etc.) which releases one or more drugs at a predetermined rate over a defined period of time to a defined site of application.

For purposes of the present invention, “transdermal” delivery is the delivery by passage of a drug through the skin and into the bloodstream (“traditional” transdermal delivery) and is termed “transdermal systemic drug delivery (TSD therapy).

For purposes of the present invention, the term “topical neuro-affective therapy” is synonymous with the more accurately termed topical regional neuro-affective therapy (or “TRNA therapy”). This term describes important aspects of this delivery method: topical, regional (near brainstem and cervical spinal cord), and affecting the free nerve endings of the afferent nervous system, thereby not requiring the presence of drug in the blood, as with systemic therapies which includes the transdermal patch wherein the skin is used to have drug enter into the bloodstream through a continuous application patch. In such situations, an ionotophoretic electric current generator may be required to cause drug entry into blood against a concentration gradient.

For purposes of the present invention “therapeutically effective” or “effective” amount is meant to be a nontoxic but sufficient amount of caryophyllene to provide the desired therapeutic effect.

For purposes of the present invention, an “effective” amount of a permeation enhancer as used herein, for example, means an amount that will provide the desired increase in skin permeability and, correspondingly, the desired depth of penetration, rate of administration, and amount of drug to be delivered.

For purposes of the present invention, the term “delivers” when used with respect to the topical formulation or transdermal therapeutic system means that the formulation or system provides a mean relative release rate or flux of the drug out of the formulation or system and through the skin of the patient.

By “predetermined area of skin” is intended a defined area of intact unbroken living skin. In certain embodiments of the present invention, the predetermined area will be in the range of about 1 cm2 to about 100 cm2, preferably in the range of about 10 cm2 to about 100 cm2, more preferably in the range of about 20 cm2 to about 60 cm2. However, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art of topical delivery that the area of skin through which drug is administered may vary significantly, depending on the formulation, dose, the application of the formulation, and the like.

“Penetration enhancement” or “permeation enhancement” for purposes of the present invention relates to an increase in the permeability of skin to a pharmacologically active agent, i.e., so as to increase the rate at which the drug permeates through the skin and enters the bloodstream. The enhanced permeation effected through the use of such enhancers can be observed by measuring the rate of diffusion of drug through animal or human skin using a diffusion cell apparatus.

For purposes of the present invention, the “brainstem afferent stimulation therapy region” is defined as the skin region of the head and/or at the frontotemporal region and/or upper posterior cervical area. In certain preferred embodiments, the treatment area is the post cervical area, in close proximity to the brain stem. Preferably this area is a relatively hairless area of the patient's head and/or neck.

For purposes of the present invention, the drug may be in the form of the base, or may be provided as a pharmaceutically acceptable salt (inorganic or organic) or complex. It may be in an optically pure form or a mixture of stereoisomers.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The therapeutically active agents used in the formulations and methods of the invention comprise caryophyllene(s). Caryophyllene provides a means of providing medical benefits of cannabinoids without negative aspects of cannabis, legal or otherwise.

Caryophyllenes are known chemical compounds, Caryophyllene, or -β-caryophyllene, is a natural bicyclic sesquiterpene that is a constituent of many essential oils, especially clove oil, the oil from the stems and flowers of Syzygium aromaticum, the essential oil of Cannabis sativa, rosemary, and hops. Caryophyllene is constituent of essential oil extracts of clove, lavender, cinnamon, rosemary, basil, oregano, hops, black pepper, and several other plant and food substances, including Cannabis sativa. It is responsible for spiciness of black pepper, West African black pepper has highest concentration of caryophyllene, 60% of essential oil. It is usually found as a mixture with isocaryophyllene and α-humulene, a ring-opened isomer. Caryophyllene is notable for having a cyclobutane ring, as well as a trans-double bond in an 8-membered ring, both rarities in nature. Beta-Caryophyllene (.beta.-Caryophyllene, trans-(1R,9S)-8-Methylene-4,11,11-trimethylbicyclo[7.2.0]undec-4-ene or [1R-(1R,4E,9S)]-4,11,11-trimethyl-8-methylene-bicyclo[7.2.0]undec-4-ene) is a natural bicyclic sesquiterpene compound.

Caryophyllene is FDA-approved as food additive and considered a dietary cannabinoid. A cannabinoid is any substance that activates human endocannabinoid system (ECS), where cannabis or marijuana also acts. Cannabis plant contains some 100 different cannabinoids, of which cannabidiol or CBD, is best known for medicinal effects. THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is a cannabinoid which produces psychoactive effects, such as “high.” There are other naturally occurring substances not derived from cannabis that act on human endocannbinoid system. These are not considered illegal or regulated. Caryophyllene is such a substance from plant or herbal sources. On the other hand, cannabis is illegal according to federal and some individual state laws.

Caryophyllenes are known to be useful in certain applications. For instance patent document U.S. Pat. No. 3,987,008 reveals sesquiterpenic derivatives as odor and taste-modifying agents; In J. Nat. Prod. 1992 July; 55(7):999-1003, beta-caryophyllene and alpha-humulene are cited as potential anticarcinogenic agents; in patent application WO alpha and beta-humulene and (−)-beta-caryophyllene are cited in the control of whitefly species; in U.S. Pat. No. 5,314,693 alpha-humulene is cited as a repellent for pine wood nematodes; in patent application WO 02078719 alpha and beta-caryophyllene are comprised in antitumor compositions.

The term “caryophyllene(s)” as used herein includes one or more caryophyllene compounds (e.g., C15 terpenes including but not limited to beta-caryophyllene), their salts, isomers, metabolites, pro-drugs, solvates (including hydrates) and adducts. For purposes of the present invention, the term “BCP” will mean beta-caryophyllene. When found in nature, BCP (beta-caryophyllene) typically appears as a mixture of two pharmaceutically-active isomers E-BCP and Z-BCP, together with substantially inactive sesquiterpenes such as alpha-humulene and derivatives such as BCP oxide. Typically, natural sources include a greater proportion of E-BCP than Z-BCP. The caryophyllene compounds useful in the invention may comprise E-BCP, Z-BCP, and mixtures thereof, for example.

Over 100 different terpenes have been identified in the cannabis plant, and every strain tends toward a unique terpene type and composition. The terpenes act synergistically with the cannabinoids to provide a therapeutic effect. Plant extracts are preferred as, in addition to one or more cannabinoids, they will contain other chemical entities that may provide a beneficial effect either in their own right or in combination with the one or more cannabinoids. Such other chemicals include, for example, volatile oils e.g. terpene or carotene rich volatiles. Known terpenes present in the CMBE include C10 terpenes, e.g. mycerene, and pinenes and C15 terpenes e.g. caryophyllene.

Cannabis produces the majority of its active ingredients (cannabinoids and terpenoids) in glandular trichomes found on the flowers, buds, leaves, and stalks of the plants. In preferred embodiments of the present invention, Cannabis plant material (e.g., flowers and leaves, either fresh or dried) containing glandular trichomes are processed mechanically to remove and concentrate the majority of these trichomes. Preferred processes separate the trichomes from the plant material by passing the trichomes through a mesh of appropriate size to allow the trichomes to pass through and exclude as much unwanted plant material as possible. The mesh may be made of any suitable material, e.g., stainless steel, aluminum, nylon, etc.

In certain embodiments, beta-caryophyllene is obtained from Cannabis, hemp, marijuana (Cannabis sativa). In other embodiment, beta-caryophyllene is obtained from Commiphora gileadensis; Black Caraway (Carum nigrum); Cloves (Syzygium aromaticum); Hops (Humulus lupulus); Basil (Ocimum spp.); Oregano (Origanum vulgare); Black pepper (Piper nigrum); West African Pepper (Piper guineense); Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis); True cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum); or Malabathrum (Cinnamomum tamala).

The endocannabinoid system (“ECS”) consists of a group of endogenous cannabinoid receptors located in mammalian brain and throughout the central and peripheral nervous systems. These entail neuromodulatory lipids and their associated receptors. As the body's “endogenous,” cannabinoid system, ECS is involved in a variety of physiological processes including neurological functions dealing with pain, mood, memory; and, movement, and sensation. The body's immune function and cell homeostasis is also maintained by ECS. It mediates the psychoactive effects of the cannabis (marijuana) plant. Cannabinoids are a diverse class of compounds that include many of the unique compounds found in marijuana.

Cannabinoids produce physiological and behavioral effects through interaction with specific membrane-bound receptors. Two primary endocannabinoid receptors have been identified: CB1 and CB2. CB1 receptors are found predominantly in brain (specifically in basal ganglia and limbic system, including hippocampus) and nervous system, as well as in peripheral organs and tissues. These are acted on by the endocannabinoid binding molecule Anandamide. Of G protein-coupled type receptors (GPCR) in human brain, cannabinoid receptors are the most plentiful. CB1 receptors responsible for euphoric and anti-convulsive effects of cannabis. CB2 receptors found only in peripheral nervous system appear responsible for anti-inflammatory effect such as pain relief. One other main endocannabinoid is 2-Arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), active at both CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors. Its mimetic phytocannabinoid is cannabidiol (CBD), while that of Anandamide is THC, responsible for psycho-active effects. 2-AG and CBD are involved in regulation of appetite, immune system functions and pain management.

Caryophyllene acts on CB2 receptors. This represents potential therapy for inflammation, pain, atherosclerosis, osteoporosis and other conditions. In contrast to CB1 receptor, CB2 is not associated with psychoactive effects. Beta-caryophyllene does not bind to the centrally expressed cannabinoid receptor type-1 (CB1) and therefore does not exert psychomimetic effects.

In certain embodiments, the pharmaceutical formulations of the invention include one or more “entourage compounds” in addition to the caryophyllene. For the purposes of the invention, an entourage compound is a compound that can increase the effects of one or more naturally-occurring ligands that bind to one or more receptors, but that has little or no affinity for the receptor. In a preferred, but non-limiting embodiment, an entourage compound increases the effects of a naturally-occurring ligand that binds to one or more cannabinoid receptors, but that has little or no affinity for the cannabinoid receptor.

In certain embodiments, the entourage compound included in the pharmaceutical formulations of the invention is a cannabinoid drug(s), such as by example and without limitation cannabidiol; cannabinodiol; cannabinol; delta8-tetrahydrocannabinol; delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol; cannabigerol; cannabichromene; cannabitriol; cannabicyclolol; cannabielsoin, cannabichromanone; cannabicoumaronone; cannabicitran; 10-oxo-delta6a10a-tetrahydrocannabinol; cannabiglendol; delta7-isotetrahydrocannabinol; CBLVA; CBV; CBEVA-B; CBCVA; delta9-THCVA; CBDVA; CBGVA; divarinolic acid; quercetin; kaemferol; dihydrokaempferol; dihydroquercetin; cannflavin B; isovitexin; apigenin; naringenin; eriodictyol; luteolin; orientin; cytisoside; vitexin; canniprene; 3,4′-dihydroxy-5-methoxy bibenzyl; dihydroresveratrol; 3,4′dihydroxy-5,3′-dimethoxy-5′-isoprenyl; cannabistilbene 1; cannabistilbene 11a; cannabistilbene 11b; cannithrene 1; cannithrene 2; cannabispirone; iso-cannabispirone; cannabispirenon-A; cannabispirenone-B; cannabispiradienone; alpha-cannabispiranol; beta-cannabispiranol; acetyl-cannabispirol; 7-hydroxy-5-methoxyindan-1-spiro-cyclohexane; 5-hydroxy-7-methoxyindan-1-spino cyclohexane; 5,7-dihydroxyindan-1-cyclohexane; cannabispiradienone; 3,4′-dihydroxy-5-methoxybibenzyl; canniprene; cannabispirone; cannithrene I; cannithrene 2; alpha-cannabispiranol; acetyl-cannabispirol; vomifoliol; dihydrovomifoliol; beta-ionone; dihydroactinidiolide; palustrine; palustridine; plus-cannabisativine; anhydrocannabisativine; dihydroperiphylline; cannabisin-A; cannabisin-B; cannabisin-C; cannabisin-D; grossamide; cannabisin-E; cannabisin-F; cannabisin-G; combinations of any of the foregoing; and the like.

In certain embodiments, the cannabinoid drug(s) is industrial hemp or a non-psychoactive hemp product.

In yet further embodiments, the cannabinoid drug(s) comprises a natural cannabinoid compound, a synthetic cannabinoid compound, a semi-synthetic cannabinoid compound, or mixtures thereof. Illustrative of such compounds are cannabinoids or cannabinoid analogues selected from the group consisting of cannabinol, cannabidiol, delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol, delta 8-tetrahydrocannabinol, hydroxy-tetrahydrocannabinol, 11-hydroxy-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, levonantradol, delta 11-tetrahydrocannabinol, tetrahydrocannabivarin, dronabinol, amandamide, nabilone, a natural or synthetic analogue thereof, a natural or synthetic molecule with a basic cannabinoid structure, and mixtures of any of the foregoing.

In certain embodiments, the cannabinoid drug(s) included in the treatment and/or formulations of the present invention comprise a ligand that binds to the CB₁ or the CB₂ receptor.

Cannabis terpenoids (e.g., limonene, myrcene, α-pinene, linalool, β-caryophyllene, caryophyllene oxide, nerolidol and phytol) share a precursor with phytocannabinoids, and are all 19quale and fragrance components common to human diets that have been designated Generally Recognized as Safe by the US Food and Drug Administration and other regulatory agencies. Terpenoids are quite potent, and affect animal and even human 19qualene when inhaled from ambient air at serum levels in the single digits ng·M1-1. They display unique therapeutic effects that may contribute meaningfully to the entourage effects of cannabis-based medicinal extracts. Thus, in certain embodiments, the formulations and treatments of the present invention include an active drug component which comprises both a phytocannabinoid(s) and a terpenoid(s). Phytocannabinoid-terpenoid interactions may produce synergy with respect to treatment of pain, inflammation, depression, anxiety, addiction, epilepsy, cancer, fungal and bacterial infections (including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus)

Administration at the Back of the Neck

The caryophyllene formulations of the present invention are preferably applied at the back of the neck region of the human patient. In its broadest sense, the term “back of the neck” or “back of the neck region” is intended to encompass the area or region extending from (behind) one ear to the other ear of the human patient and from the back of the head (i.e., above the neck) to below the hairline at the back of the neck of the human patient, i.e., extending caudally from the back of the head at the hairline (“BONATH”) all the way down to the posterior extent of the back of the neck to the cervico-thoracic junction, located at C7 posterior spinous process (the “vertebra prominens”) of the human patient. More preferably, the administration of the caryophyllene is located more directly at the back of the neck in the area above the cervical nerve roots, C1-C4 (and optionally including C5) such that administration of the caryophyllene is in the area at or above the skin where the afferent components of trigeminal nerve system, cervical sympathetic nerves, and vagus nerve are located. In certain preferred embodiments, the back of the neck is more specifically the back of the neck at or around the hairline of the patient, which is an area more directly above the C1-C4 cervical nerve roots (this area is referred to herein as “BONATH”). It is to be understood that application at the back of the neck is not an exact art, and application of part or all of the dose in proximity to the back of the neck (e.g., behind the ears or on the skin higher (on the back of the head) or lower (below the hairline, and even below the C5 area) than directly above the C1-C4 cervical nerve roots will still provide a therapeutically effective dose in accordance with the invention; however, such locations are not optimal and may cause a lessening of the therapeutic effect or a delay in onset of therapeutic effect. All such treatments are considered to fall within the definition of “back of the neck” for purposes of the present invention.

The administration of caryophyllene at the back of the neck is a novel way to deliver caryophyllene. This is believed to be accomplished by activation of cutaneous afferent pathways through neuro-chemical receptors existing on free nerve-endings. The hypothesis of this therapeutic modality is based on presence of numerous (hundreds of thousands to millions) of free nerve-endings below the skin surface (stratum comeum) at upper posterior cervical region, the back of the neck or “nuchal” region. There exist at this location, direct connections through cervical nerve roots, C1-C4, and occasionally, C5, to afferent components of trigeminal nerve system, cervical sympathetic nerves, and vagus nerve providing significant input to CNS. At no other location on the human body is such a magnitude of afferent neural input accessible through skin nerve-endings than here. Modulated CNS efferent neural outflow in response to afferent activation manifests as improvement in clinical symptoms of MS and other conditions of brain and spinal cord impairment. By using direct nerve pathways, by-passing blood flow and avoiding restrictions of “blood-brain-barrier,” onset of therapeutic time is greatly reduced and systemic side effects are avoided.

The inventor has observed rapid therapeutic onset of action, generally, less than 10 to 15 minutes administration of caryophyllene at the back of the neck, with maximal benefit noted well within 30 minutes. In certain embodiments, a prolonged therapeutic effect has been noted, e.g., about 4 to about 12 hours or more, depending on condition and severity of the condition being treated.

The peripheral nervous system (PNS) communicates with central nervous system (CNS, consisting of brain, brainstem, and spinal cord) through dorsal root ganglia which reside just outside the spine and act as neural relay areas between PNS and CNS. The human skin has free nerve endings just below the skin surface (stratum corneum), Which are the peripheral end components of spinal dorsal root ganglia. As skin and CNS are both derived from the same embryological tissue, neuro-ectoderm, receptors to neurotransmitters and other substances used in neural communication are similarly represented on both free nerve endings and CNS. This makes sense as the skin needs to communicate directly with CNS with respect to external stimuli. In fact, these receptors are on the cell surface of skin free nerve endings, making them readily accessible to compounded drug applications to the skin for neural effect, “topical neuro-affective therapy.” The binding of the topically administered caryophyllene to these receptors results in electrical action potential generation and propagation to CNS, causing therapeutic effects to occur. As such, these same drug compounds do not need to enter the bloodstream to reach their sites of activity, as it is with systemic delivery. Systemic side effects and drug activity at sites other than intended are therefore not present. Further, by working through established neural pathways than through the blood stream, the therapeutic effects are rapid, generally with 15-30 minutes or less. Many of the current drugs used systemically for peripheral conditions such as pain are thought to work by their effect on dorsal root ganglia, modulating neural impulses to brain. With topical neuro-affective therapy the effects on dorsal root ganglia. are direct and immediate as free nerve endings are peripheral extensions of the ganglia.

An important aspect of the benefits of “TRNA” or “RNA” therapy in CNS drug delivery for brainstem related disorders lies in the anatomy of the region. The free nerve endings with receptors for the neuro-chemicals dopamine, serotonin, norepinephrine, and others are located just below the surface of the skin, easily assessable to drugs compounded in an appropriate dermal penetration enhancing medium and topically applied to the skin.

To understand the concept of “peripheral neural afferent stimulation therapy” as it applies to the brainstem and how topical drug delivery to the back of the neck works requires a review of the neuro-anatomy and the neuro-physiology of the region. As indicated above, this area of the nervous system is very complicated, compact and highly inter-active and inter-related.

The Trigeminal Nerve System is a component of the brainstem which coordinates pain input from the face, head, and the back of the neck. As such, it intimately influences the production of other symptoms associated with syndromes attributed to dysfunction within the trigeminal complex. These include the photophobia, phonophobia, nausea, anxiety, allodynia, and other focal sensory symptoms which may accompany a migraine attack. Similarly, episodes of trigeminal neuralgia (tic douloreux) frequently involve significant affective (emotional) and visceral components. Because of proximity and connections to other structures in the brainstem, abnormalities of temperature regulation, thirst, alertness, and mood are common. Some of these symptoms may be as equally disabling as the head and face pain.

In addition to receiving pain and sensory (afferent) input from the face, nasal and para-nasal sinuses, the teeth, scalp, the dura of the anterior and middle cranial fossa, the trigeminal system receives similar input from the soft tissues of the posterior cervical region. The free nerve endings in the back of the neck are just below the surface of the skin, easily accessible to topically delivered drugs formulated in an appropriate dermal penetration enhancing compounding medium. The free nerve endings, via the small un-myelinated and myelinated “C-fibers” (pain fibers) carry pain impulses through afferent sensory nerves back to the Trigeminal Nucleus Caudalis (TNC). TNC is the pain processing center extending from the pons through the entire extent of the brainstem to the upper cervical spinal cord. After synapsing at the thalamus, pain impulses from TNC travel to the somatosensory cortex, where pain is perceived.

As providing important afferent input to the brain, the trigeminal system also receives afferent input from the rest of the body. Afferent input is defined as any neural impulses coming back to the brain from the body. As such it provides information to the brain for processing and interpretation: pain, sensation, autonomic functions. Efferent output, on the other hand, consists of impulses originating in the central nervous system (brain, brainstem, and spinal cord) flowing to the body for function: movement, response, action.

The vagus nerve includes both efferent and afferent fibers and is attached to the lower brainstem (medulla oblongata) via 8-10 radicles. The afferent fibers arise in the jugular and the nodose vagus ganglia. The somatic afferent fibers terminate in the nucleus of the trigemino-spinal tract (TNC). Both the jugular and the nodose ganglia are connected with the superior cervical sympathetic gangion through inter-communicating rami. The superior cervical sympathetic ganglion is located between the internal carotid artery and the jugular vein on the ventral aspects of the transverse processes of the 2^(nd), 3^(rd), and the 4^(th) cervical vertebrae. It is the largest of the sympathetic trunk ganglia.

Sympathetic roots arising from the ganglion join the 1^(st) and the 2^(nd) cervical nerves; frequently the 3^(rd), and occasionally, the 4^(th). In addition to nerve fibers which extend rostrally from the superior cervical sympathetic ganglion, the sympathetic innervation of the head includes fibers which join the plexi on the common carotid and the vertebrtal arteries. The one on the vertebral artery is continuous with the plexus on the basilar artery. Rami derived from the internal carotid plexus join the trigeminal nerve and the cavernous plexus in addition to the other structures such as the abducens and deep petrosal nerves. From the cavernous plexus, located in the middle cranial fossa, sympathetic fibers join the oculomotor, trochlear, and the ophthalmic nerves. Fibers from the plexus also accompany blood vessels into the hypophysis. The spheno-palatine gangion, located in the pterygo-palatine fossa, receives sypmpathetic fibers from the face with rami distributed to the mucous membranes of the nares, mouth, the pharynx, and some orbital structures.

From the above, it is clear that cervical nerve function is intimately related to vagal afferents and afferents from the face, head, and the dura of cranial fossae associated with migraine and other head and face pain syndromes.

It has been long reported that vagal nerve stimulation (VNS) in the neck down-regulates abnormal discharges from epileptic foci and treats seizures. VNS is now approved as adjunct to medical therapy in certain forms of intractable epilepsy. It is also of benefit in severe depression resistant to traditional drug therapy. Studies with VNS in migraine, anxiety, and fibromyalgia have been underway and have shown preliminary promise in benefit. The mechanism of action appears to be the down-regulation of hyper-excitable, dysfunctional neuronal systems by increased inhibitory input to brainstem and associated connections through stimulation of the afferent system. Afferent stimulation, by feed-back through TNC, causes reduction in efferent output from the brainstem, resulting in resolution of clinical symptoms through down-regulation of hyper-active neuronal structures.

In the same way the electrical stimulation of VNS accomplishes its effect on the brainstem, topical drug therapy to the posterior cervical region, in close proximity to the brainstem and its afferent inputs, is theorized to provide effect for the conditions mentioned above.

It is hypothesized that benefits of the present method of topical drug delivery of central nervous system (CNS) active drugs lies in the fact that drug concentration gradients and blood flow factors are un-involved in the therapeutic process. In contrast, the proposed delivery operates through direct nerve connections between skin peripheral nerves at the back of the neck, for example at the hairline (BONATH) and brainstem structures. Active drug compounded in an appropriate “dermal penetration enhancing” medium topically applied to the skin at the back of neck has effect on the free nerve endings of peripheral nerves located immediately below the skin surface. Receptors to dopamine, serotonin, norepinephrine, and other neuro-transmitters/neuro-chemicals involved with neural transmission are located on these free nerve endings. Therefore, topically applied drug has near immediate therapeutic effect as direct neural impulses are involved—the concept of brainstem afferent stimulation through topical regional neuro-affective (TRNA) therapy. All prior art and methods of drug delivery to the CNS have involved blood flow and therapeutic drug blood level requirements. The inventive method does not require such, which are the source of undesirable systemic and CNS side-effects. The present drug delivery process operates on the principle of an electrical capacitor whereas the prior relied on those fluid dynamics and reservoir principles.

The factors which determine the success of TRNA therapy include: the drug being considered, the compounding substance (surfactant/dermal penetration enhancer), the disease process, and the location of application. The free nerve endings in the skin at the back of the neck are important components of the cervical nerves with rich connections to the trigeminal, vagal, and sympathetic systems communicating with brainstem structures and other components of the central nervous system. These are the areas pain and other symptoms related to neuro-chemical release are processed and perceived.

The skin at the upper part of the back of the neck, at the hairline, is innervated by (supplied by nerves) the cervical nerve roots C1-3 that are also part of the Trigeminal Nerve system of the brainstem. These cervical nerves (the wires) have their cell bodies (their generators) within the Nucleus Caudalis (Spinal Nucleus) of the Trigeminal Nerve in the cervical spinal cord and the brainstem. Accordingly, they have direct neural connections with brainstem processing areas. At the same time, the peripheral nerve receptor sites for these nerves, the free nerve endings, reside under the skin surface at the back of the neck. The nerves in the soft tissues of the back of the neck, representing the C1, C2, and C3 segments of the cervical spinal cord are unique in that they have intimate connections with pathways directly affecting brainstem and autonomic system function. There are direct connections with the Trigeminal Nerve system of the brainstem which provides for pain and other sensory input and interpretation from the head, face, sinus cavities, the dural covering of the brain, and the back of the neck. There are also connections with the vagus nerve and the sympathetic nervous system through the sympathetic ganglia. It is through these connections, which are nowhere else in the body as inter-related or at such close proximity to the surface of the human skin, that the potential for the delivery of CNS acting drugs through the skin at the back of the neck (BONATH) is realized. Finally, skin is embryologically derived from neuro-ectoderm which is also responsible for the formation of the brain and other aspects of the CNS. Thus, the nerves in the human skin have a particularly direct relationship with these structures. This provides for the efficacy noted with TRN/back of the neck therapy, At the same time, systemic and other CNS side-effects are reduced or avoided. Thus, drugs topically applied to the skin in this region have ready access to brainstem and other CNS structures without the requirement of drug in the bloodstream reaching target sites.

In addition to the upper cervical nerves having direct relation to the Trigeminal Nerve System, they also contribute to the Cervical Sympathetic Ganglia and the Vagal Nerve Systems through direct connections. These latter two systems provide some of the most significant afferent feed-back to the brainstem and other portions of the CNS from the rest of the body. This allows for additional brainstem afferent stimulation potential through TRNA therapy at the back of the neck. Although skin at other areas of the face and head have eventual neural feed-back to the brainstem, the intimate connections to afferent feed-back systems are lacking.

The question arises then: does TRNA therapy work with drug application to the forehead, face, or other regions of the head. The answer is perhaps—in some disease states such as migraine and face pain; but not as effective and efficient as at the back of the neck or at the back of the neck at the hairline (BONATH). Free nerve endings are also present at these other locations but the distance back to involved brainstem structures is greater and there is not the added advantage of rich afferent neural connections to the trigeminal, vagal, and sympathetic nerve systems that are associated with the posterior cervical region.

TRNA therapy at the hack of the neck or at the BONATH delivery differs from traditional therapy (whether oral, injection, nasal spray, inhalation, or rectal) in that it has no reliance on the systemic or cerebral blood flow. Nor does it require therapeutic blood levels of drug. These latter factors are responsible for systemic and CNS side-effects as drug is delivered to areas not intended to be affected in the therapeutic process. Transdermal systemic delivery by patch, although similarly applied to the skin as in TRNA therapy, differs significantly in its reliance on a drug concentration gradient for absorption into the systemic capillary and venous blood. TRNA therapy is unaffected by dermal vessels or systemic blood flow. It relies solely on the function of the free nerve endings of cutaneous nerves and their connections at the point of application of compounded drug.

“Traditional” transdermal drug delivery by patch and TRNA are both “transdermal” in that in both, drug penetrates the skin (epidermis) for eventual clinical effect. The difference lies in the fact that in “traditional” transdermal patch therapy, drug enters the systemic circulation through a concentration gradient and establishes a therapeutic drug blood level. Although measuring a blood level gives assurance drug is being taken or delivered systemically, allowing for checking compliance, it is also the source of undesirable side-effects and drug interactions. Of necessity, with systemic transdermal patch therapy, drug applied to the skin surface must be absorbed through the small vessels in the dermis for eventual presence in the systemic venous blood for measurement of drug level. With TRNA therapy, the caryophyllene need only be available at the free nerve endings under the epidermis. No concentration gradients or systemic blood levels are necessary. Drug delivery is unaffected by cardiac output or cerebral blood flow factors. Of significance, persons afflicted with Parkinson's disease are typically elderly with concomitant cardiac and cerebral vascular disease.

Thus, in certain embodiments, the methods and formulations of the invention deliver an amount of caryophyllene in the TRNA therapy that would provide sub-therapeutic plasma levels if administered orally, but which is therapeutically effective when administered via TRNA therapy at the back of the neck or at the BONATH.

It is hypothesized by the inventor that a principal reason TRNA therapy is rapid in the onset of clinical effect (e.g., less than about 10-15 minutes) for is that it operates through an “electro-chemical” process. Active drug compounded in an appropriate dermal penetration enhancing medium acts at free nerve endings, changing the neurochemistry of receptors at the neural synapse: apomorphine (dopamine and norepinephrine agonist), increasing dopamine and norepinephrine levels and improving neural transmission. After a point of receptor stimulation, neural (electrical) impulses are generated back to neuronal cell bodies residing in the spinal cord and brainstem: “afferent feed-back”. The nervous system functions through neurons generating electrical impulses and the release of neurochemicals/neuro-transmitters (serotonin, norepinephrine, dopamine, and acetylcholine, being the major ones) at neural receptor sites called “synaptic clefts”. Accordingly, the process in TRNA therapy may be considered analogous to an electrical capacitor discharging to perform a function, such as turning on a light switch. Viewed from this perspective, the rapid onset of clinical effect observed in TRNA therapy makes sense.

Alternatively, transdermal systemic patch delivery operates on the principles of chemical gradients and fluid dynamics. These processes have variability and inherent idiosyncrasies, fluctuating heart function as a pump for blood flow being one. Thus, despite the advantage of measurable drug levels, a more circuitous route with slower clinical effect is observed. This makes systemic transdermal patch delivery inappropriate for acute therapy.

Therapeutic Applications

Potential clinical applications of caryophyllene applied at the back of the neck in accordance with the present invention include the following: seizures; epilepsy; encephalopathy, including lethargy, focus/attentional problems, and cognitive issues; spasticity; weakness (e.g., muscle weakness); pain, including radiculopathy and neuropathy, lower back pain, and fibromyalgia; neuropathic pain; numbness and/or tingling; anxiety and other mood disorders; hypertension and autonomic dysfunction; Parkinson's disease and tremors, including Essesntial Tremor; insomnia; Bell's palsy and facial nerve dysfunction; glaucoma (marijuana is known to reduce pressure in the eye); multiple sclerosis (an extract that relieves pain and muscle spasms in MS patients has been approved in Europe and Canada, though not in the U.S. (Nabiximols, trade name Sativex, an aerosolized mist for oral administration containing 1:1 ratio of CBD and THC)), AIDS (one of the FDA-approved synthetic versions of a substance found in marijuana, (−)-trans-Δ⁹-tetracydocannabinol (generally referred to as dronabinol) helps increase appetite and treat weight loss in patients with the disease); cancer (dronabinol is also marketed in the U.S. to treat nausea associated with chemotherapy; researchers have reported CBD's ability to “turn off” the activity of ID1, a gene responsible for metastasis in breast and other types of cancers, including aggressive triple negative breast cancer; PTSD; trigeminal neuralgia; hemi-facial spasms; Autism/Asperger's; Attention Deficit Disorder and Hyperactivity; social isolation; occipital neuralgia; TMJ dysfunction related symptoms; cognitive problems including memory disturbance; headaches (migraine and tension); peripheral neuropathy; Dravet syndrome (an intractable seizure disorder also known as Severe Myoclonic Epilepsy of Infancy (SMEI)—an oral CBD formulation received orphan drug status in US as treatment for this condition); apnea (including central sleep apnea, obstructive sleep apnea syndrome, and mixed apneas (having components of central and obstructive sleep apneas); smoking cessation; arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis; depression; emesis; anti-obesity; nausea; vomiting; alcohol use disorders; dystonia; inflammatory bowel syndrome; neuropathic pain associated with post-herpetic neuralgia; diabetic neuropathy; shingles; burns; actinic keratosis; oral cavity sores and ulcers; post-episiotomy pain; psoriasis; pruritis; contact dermatitis; eczema; bullous dermatitis herpetiformis; exfoliative dermatitis; mycosis fungoides; pemphigus; severe eryththema multiforme; seborrheic dermatitis; ankylosing spondylitis; psoriatic arthritis; Reiter's syndrome; gout; chondrocalcinosis; joint pain; dysmenorrhea; musculoskeletal pain; molymyositis; bursitis; epicondylitis; osteoarthritis; synovitis; pancreatitis; and other disease states and conditions which will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

In certain preferred embodiments, the topical caryophyllene afferent neural activation therapy of the invention is used for the treatment of anxiety disorder; attention deficit disorder/poor focus; social isolation/autism-related symptoms; muscle tension and spasm; seizures and associated encephalopathy; headache; peripheral neuropathic pain and symptoms thereof; tinnitus/ringing in ears; sinus congestion; skin inflammatory conditions such as actinic keratosis; torticollis, dystonia; arthritis related pain and decreased range of motion; dizziness and light-headedness.

In certain preferred embodiments, the topical caryophyllene is formulated in a vehicle that allows for the drug to be immediately absorbable and available for the free nerve endings of the trigeminal nervous system which reside under the skin surface at the back of the neck when the formulation is, e.g., applied to the back of the neck of a human patient in the form of a cream, gel or ointment. On the other hand, it is contemplated in certain embodiments of the invention that the topical or implantable caryophyllene formulation can be administered in the form that provides a prolonged release at the back of the neck, for example, in the form of a transdermal patch. The uniqueness of this particular area of the human anatomy which allows this delivery method to work. In further embodiments, the caryophyllene is applied (i) in a topical form that provides a therapeutically effective dose of the caryophyllene immediately absorbable at the site (back of the neck), and (ii) a further therapeutically effective dose(s) in a prolonged or sustained release formulation (e.g., a transdermal patch or contained in liposomes) that releases the caryophyllene over time such that the caryophyllene is absorbed at the back of the neck in therapeutically effective amounts over a span of multiple dosage time intervals (e.g., 1-7 days).

A unit dose of the topical formulation(s) of caryaophyllene drug(s) used in accordance with the present invention preferably includes from about 10 mg to about 200 mg caryophyllene. In certain preferred embodiments, a unit dose of the topical caryophyllene formulation provides a caryophyllene dose from about 3 mg to about 200 mg, and in certain embodiments more preferably from about 10 mg to about 50 mg or from about 15 mg to about 30 mg. This may be administered, e.g., in a topical cream, ointment, gel or the like. A representative topical formulation may include from about 0.3% to about 20% caryophyllene, and more preferably from about 1% to about 5% caryophyllene. In certain preferred embodiments the caryophyllene comprises or consists of β-caryophyllene.

In certain embodiments, the topical caryophyllene formulation of the present invention is administered at the back of the neck on the human patient and a therapeutic effect is preferably provided within about 45 minutes, preferably within about 30 minutes, or 25 minutes, or 20 minutes, or 15 minutes, or 10 minutes after the administration. In certain preferred embodiments, a therapeutic effect is noticed within about 10 to about 15 minutes after the administration (e.g., application of the topical formulation to the back of the neck).

In certain embodiments, the topical caryophyllene formulation is administered on an “as needed” basis. In other embodiments, the topical caryophyllene formulation is administered on a once a day basis, or on a twice a day basis, or on a three times a day basis, or on a four times a day basis.

The treatment is dependent on disease state/condition treated. For chronic disease states/conditions (such as seizures, neuropathies, autism/encephalopathies, etc.) the topical treatment (e.g., unit dose of topical caryophyllene applied to the back of the neck in accordance with the invention) can be via a 1-4 times per day, preferably 2-3 times per day application, long-term. For acute disease states/conditions or subacute disease states/conditions (such as back or neck injuries, migraine attack, panic states, and others), the topical treatment may be administered as needed, e.g. up to 1-4 times per day over the duration of symptoms. Relief of symptoms for acute and sub-acute conditions may be achieved anywhere from just one applicator with partial or complete relief to few days with partial or complete relief, and repeated with recurrence.

For example, the topical formulation may be administered as a unit dose in an amount from about 0.5 g to about 1 g at a caryophyllene concentration from about 0.1% to about 5% (or more)

Combination Therapy

In certain preferred embodiments of the invention, the caryophyllene(s) is administered together with (e.g., in the same formulation), or simultaneously (but separately) or sequentially with an additional active agent(s) (“drug(s)”) suitable for treating the patient's disease state or condition. Classes of drugs which would be suitable as an additional active agent(s) include, but are not limited to:

-   -   1. Anti-Epileptic drugs: Examples of a second therapeutic         agent(s) include Valproic acid (Depacon®/Depakot® e),         Leviteracetem (Keppra®), Lamotrigene (Lamictal®), Topiramate         (Topamax®), Pregabalin (Lyrica®), Gabapentin (Neurontin®),         Carbamazepine (Tegretol®), Oxcarbazepine (Trileptal®),         Phenobarbital and other barbiturates, Tiagabine (Gabatril®),         Retigabine™ (Valeant Pharmaceuticals), Lacosamide® (Schwarz         Biosciences), and Perampanel® (Eisai) are in development as         anti-epileptics and neuromodulators for other associated         neurological, pain, and psychiatric conditions.     -   2. Anxiolytic drugs: Benzodiazepines: Examples of a second         therapeutic agent(s) include lorazepam (Ativan®), diazepam         (Valium®), clonazepam (Klonopin®), chlordiazepoxide (Librium®),         and alprazolam (Xanax®).     -   3. Neuroleptics/Anti-Psychotic drugs: Examples of a second         therapeutic agent(s) include chlorpromazine (Thorazine®),         haloperidol (Haldol®), risperidone (Risperdal®), olanzapine         (Zyprexa®) and quetiapine (Seroquel®).     -   4. Analgesics/Anti-Inflammatory drugs: Examples of a second         therapeutic agent(s) include prednisone, solumedrol, and other         steroids, naproxen, aspirin, acetaminophen, voltaren,         ketoprofen, ibuprofen, other NSAID's.     -   5. Parkinson's Disease/Similar or Related Syndrome (e.g.,         tremors, spasticity and spasms, dystonia) drugs: Examples of a         second therapeutic agent(s) include dopamine agonists such as         apomorphine.     -   6. Dystonia (cervical and otherwise), which sometimes occur in         conjunction with spasmdic torticollis and spastic conditions:         Examples of a second therapeutic agent(s) include dopamine         agonists such as apomorphine.     -   7. Benign essential/familial tremor, tremor related to MS,         chronic encepahalopathies such as from stroke or head injuries,         congenital CNS degeneration conditions/cerebral palsy,         cerebellar degeneration syndromes, and spasicity conditions from         the above: Examples of a second therapeutic agent(s) of a second         therapeutic agent(s) include dopamine agonists such as         apomorphine.     -   8. Neuropathic/Neurogenic pain drugs: Examples of a second         therapeutic agent(s) include carbamazepine, gabapentin,         topiramate, zonisamide, phenytoin, desipramine, amitriptyline,         imipramine, doxepin, protriptyline, pentoxifylline, and         hydroxyzine.     -   9. Smoking Cessation drugs: Examples of a second therapeutic         agent(s) include drugs such as varenicline.     -   10. Appetite Suppressant drugs: Examples of a second therapeutic         agent(s) include drugs such as Sibutramine.     -   11. Neurodegenerative Diseases: Examples of a second therapeutic         agent(s) include Aricept/donepezil, Exelon/rivastigmine,         Reminyl/Razadyne/galantamine, and Namenda/memantine and their         naturally occurring counterparts, as well as NMDA antagonists.

12. Multiple Sclerosis (MS): Examples of a second therapeutic agent(s) include drugs such as 4-aminopyridine.

13. Insomnia: Examples of a second therapeutic agent(s) include drugs such as zolpidem or melatonin.

14. Fatigue: Examples of a second therapeutic agent(s) include drugs such as pemoline and Modafinil.

15. Vertigo, Nausea and/or Dizziness: Examples of a second therapeutic agent(s) include drugs such as as meclizine, dimenhydrinate, prochlorperazine, scopolamine and diphenhydramine.

16. Writer's cramp and restless leg syndrome: Examples of a second therapeutic agent(s) include dopamine agonists such as apomorphine.

17. Migraine: examples of a second therapeutic agent(s) include serotonin agonists, such as sumatriptan; ergot alkaloids such as ergotamine; skeletal muscle relaxants such as tizanidine; and combinations of any of the foregoing.

18. Muscle spasms and spasticity: examples of a second therapeutic agent(s) include skeletal muscle relaxants such as tizanidine, as a norepinephrine alpha-adrenergic receptor agonist; 4-amino pyridine, with agonist and antagonist activities at neurochemical receptor sites affecting glutamate, dopamine, serotonin function in CNS, as well as that of other neurotransmitters to improve nerve conduction, reduce spasticity, and improve neurological function in multiple sclerosis, MS, stroke; and brain and spinal cord injuries.

19. Peripherally applied, topical 4-amino pyridine found useful in diabetic peripheral neuropathy, DPN, and other peripheral neuropathic conditions.

20. ADD/ADHD and/or Tourette's syndrome: an example of a second therapeutic agent(s) would be phentermine.

21. Anxiety and/or panic attacks and/or mood disorders: an example of a second therapeutic agent(s) is milnacipran.

In certain embodiments, the additional drug(s) includes a dopamine agonist such as apomorphine (Apokyn®, APO-Go®), pramipexole (Mirapexin®), ropinirole (Requip®), bromocriptine (Parlodel®), cabergoline (Cabaser®, Dostinex®), pergolide (Permax®, Celance®) rotigotine (Neupro®), mixtures of any of the foregoing, or other dopamine agonists known to those skilled in the art. One skilled in the art will appreciate that dopamine agonists other than apomorphine may be used in the formulations and methods of the present invention, and all such agents are meant to be encompassed by the term “dopamine agonists.” For example, such drugs include, but are not limited to, carbidopa (Sinemet®), dopamine agonists (Requip®, Rotigotine®, Mirapex®), COMT inhibitors (Entacapone®, Tocapone), rasagiline (Azilect®) (MAO inhibitors) and MAO-B inhibitors (Selegiline (Eldepryl®). In certain preferred embodiments, the concentration of dopamine agonist included in the topical unit dose is from about 0.25 mg to about 4 mg, based on apomorphine, or an therapeutically equivalent amount of another dopamine agonist as described herein.

In other embodiments, the additional drug(s) includes an opioid such as morphine, codeine, dihydrocodeine, hydrocodone, hydromorphone, nicomorphine, oxycodone, oxymorphone fentanyl, alphamethylfentanyl alfentanil sufentanil, remifentanil, carfentanyl, ohmefentanyl, thebaine, oripavine, diacetylmorphine (heroin), phenylpiperidines such as pethidine (meperidine) and ketobemidone, allylprodine, prodine, propoxyphene dextropropoxyphene, dextromoramide, bezitramide, piritramide, methadone, dipipanone, levomethadyl Acetate (LAAM), loperamide, diphenoxylate, dezocine, pentazocine, phenazocine, buprenorphine, dihydroetorphine, etorphine butorphanol, nalbuphine, levorphanol, levomethorphan, lefetamine, meptazinol, tilidine, tramadol, tapentadol, mixtures thereof, and the like.

In yet other embodiments, the additional drug(s) is tarpentadol (a centrally acting oral analgesic having two mechanisms of action combining mu-opioid receptor agonism and norepinephrine reuptake inhibition).

In yet other embodiments, the additional drug(s) is a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, such as Atomoxetine (Strattera®), Mazindol (Mazanor®, Sanorex®), Nisoxetine (LY-94939), Reboxetine (Edronax®, Vestra®), Viloxazine (Vivalan®), mixtures thereof, and the like.

In yet other embodiments, the additional drug(s) is a benzodiazepine, such as lorazepam (Ativan®), diazepam (Valium®), clonazepam (Klonopin®), chlordiazepoxide (Librium®), alprazolam (Xanax®), temazepam (Restoril®), mixtures thereof, and the like. In other embodiments, the drug is a neuroleptic or psychotropic such as chlorpromazine (Thorazine®), haloperidol (Haldol®), risperidone (Risperdal®), olanzapine (Zyprexa®) and quetiapine (Seroque®).

In other embodiments, the additional drug(s) is an agent that treats depression and/or anxiety, for example, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) such as fluoxetine (Prozac), sertraline (Zoloft®), venlafaxine (Effexor®), citalopram (Celexa®), parocetine (Paxil), mixtures thereof, and the like (such as trazodone (Desyrel)), and/or serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRI), such as Desvenlafaxine (Pristig®), Duloxetine (Cymbalta®), Milnacipran (Ixel®, Savella®), Venlafaxine (Effexor®), mixtures thereof, and the like.

In yet other embodiments, the additional drug(s) is a norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitor (NDRI), such as Amineptine (Survector®), an aminoketone antidepressant such as Bupropion (Wellbutrin®, Zyban®), Dexmethylphenidate (Focalin), Methylphenidate (Ritalin®, Concerta®), Nomifensine (Merital®), a phenylpiperazine antidepressant such as nefazodone (Serzone®), a piperazino-azepine antidepressant such as mirtazapine (Remeron®), mixtures thereof, and the like.

In yet other embodiments, the additional drug(s) may be an NMDA receptor antagonist. Phencyclidine, ketamine, and dextromethorphan, are used as recreational drugs. At subanesthetic doses, however, these drugs have mild stimulant effects, and these agents have shown promise for the treatment of conditions that involve excitotoxicity, including traumatic brain injury, stroke, and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and. Huntington's.

Additionally, the additional drug(s) may be an agent that treats neuropathic/neurogenic pain (pain that arises from nerve dysfunction and not as a result of injury, e.g., trigeminal neuralgia), such as carbamazepine, gabapentin, topiramate, zonisamide, phenytoin, desipramine, amitriptyline, imipramine, doxepin, protriptyline, pentoxifylline, and hydroxyzine.

In other embodiments, the additional drug(s) treats insomnia, such as zolpidem (Ambien®).

In other embodiments, the additional drug(s) treats fatigue. Such drugs include centre nervous system stimulants such as pemoline (Cylert®) and Modafinil (Provigil®).

In yet other embodiments, the additional drug(s) treats vertigo, nausea and/or dizziness, such as meclizine (Antivert®), dimenhydrinate (36qualene36), prochlorperazine (36qualene36®), scopolamine (Transderm®) and diphenhydramine (Benadryl®).

In yet other embodiments, the drug is a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI), such as Desvenlafaxine (Pristiq®), Duloxetine (Cymbalta®), Milnacipran (Ixel®, Savella®), Venlafaxine (Effexor®), mixtures thereof, and the like.

In yet other embodiments, the additional drug(s) is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA), such as Amitriptyline (Elavil®), Butriptyline (Evadene®, Evadyn® e), Clomipramine (Anafranil®), Desipramine (Norpramin®, Pertofrane), Dosulepin (Prothiade), Doxepin (Adapin, Sinequan), Imipramine (Tofranil®), Lofepramine (Feprapax®, Gamanil®, Lomont®), Nortriptyline (Aventyl®, Nortrilen®, Pamelor®), Protriptyline (Vivacti® l), Trimipramine (Surmontil®), mixtures thereof, and the like.

In yet other embodiments, the additional drug(s) is a tetracyclic antidepressant, such as Amoxapine (Asendin®), Maprotiline (Ludiomil®), Mianserin (Tolvon®), mixtures thereof, and the like.

In yet other embodiments, the additional drug(s) is an atypical antipsychotic, such as Ziprasidone (Geodon®, Zeldox®), Nefazodone (Serzone®), and the like.

In yet other embodiments, the additional drug(s) is an anti-convulsant or anti-epileptic drug such as arylsulfonimide analogues such as Acetazolimide (Diamox)®, tricyclic iminostilbene derivatives such as carbamazepine (Tegreto®), benzodiazepines such as clonazepam (Klonopin®), clorazepate dipotassium (Tranxene®), lorazepam (Ativan®) and diazepam (Valium®), carboxylic acid derivatives such as valproic acid (Depakene®) and divalproex sodium (Depakote®), succinimide derivatives such as ethosuximide (Zarontin®), carbarnate esters of 2-phenyl-1,3-propanediol such as felbamate (Felbatol®), hydantoins such as phenytoin (Dilantin®), phenytoin sodium (Dilantin®) and fosphenytoin sodium (Cerebyx®), structural analogues of GABA such as gabapentin (Neurontin®) and pregabalin (Lyrica®), phenyltriazines such as lamotrigine (Lamictal®), pyrrolidine derivatives such as levitiracetam (Keppra®), tricyclic iminostilbene derivatives such as 37qualene37pine (Trileptal), barbiturates such as Phenobarbital, desoxybarbiturates such as primidone (Mysoline®), nipecotic acid derivatives such as tiagabine hydrochloride (Gabitril®), sulfamated monosaccharides such as topiramate (Topamax®), oxazolidinedione derivatives such as trimethadione (Tridione®), and methanesulfonamides such as zonisamide (Zonigran®). Additional drugs such as Retigabine® (Valeant Pharmaceuticals), Lacosamide® (Schwarz Biosciences), and Perampanel® (Eisai) are in development as anti-epileptics and neuromodulators for other associated neurological, pain, and psychiatric conditions, and thus are further examples of potentially useful drugs in the present invention.

In yet other embodiments, the additional drug(s) is an analgesic/anti-inflammatory agent such as acetaminophen; prednisone, solumedrol, and other steroids; naproxen, aspirin, voltaren, ketoprofen, ibuprofen, nabumetone, and other NSAID's. The NSAID may be COX-1, COX-2 or mixed COX-1/COX-2 inhibitors. Examples of COX-2 inhibitors include oxicam, meloxicam, and the more selective celecoxib, rofecoxib, valdecoxib, parecoxib and etoricoxib. Further examples of corticosteroids include methylprednisolone, prednisolone, dexamethasone, and adreno-corticotrophic hormone (ACTH), corticotropin.

Additionally, the additional drug(s) may be an agent that treats neuropathic/neurogenic pain (pain that arises from nerve dysfunction and not as a result of injury, e.g., trigeminal neuralgia), such as carbamazepine, gabapentin, topiramate, zonisamide, phenytoin, desipramine, amitriptyline, imipramine, doxepin, protriptyline, pentoxifylline, and hydroxyzine, mixtures thereof, and the like.

In other embodiments, the additional drug(s) is 4-aminopyridine (4-AP; also known as Fampridine®) or a pharmaceutically acceptable and therapeutically active derivative thereof. This drug has been shown to have the ability to improve the communication between damaged nerves, which may result in increased neurological function in the treatment of conditions such as multiple sclerosis (MS). An example of another such drug is 3,4 diaminopyridine. In certain preferred embodiments, the 4-AP is included in the formulation in an amount from about 1 mg to about 40 mg, preferably about 2 to about 10 mg, and in certain embodiments most preferably about 5 mg.

In other embodiments, the additional drug(s) is useful for the treatment of Dementia/Alzheimer's disease, such as Aricept®/donepezil, Exelon®/rivastigmine, Reminyl®/Razadyne®/galantamine, and Namenda®/memantine, their naturally occurring counterparts, and mixtures thereof.

In other embodiments, the additional drug(s) is a serotonin agonist useful for the treatment of migraine, such as for example and without limitation, sumatriptan, naratriptan, eletriptan, rizatriptan, zolmitriptan, almotriptan, frovatriptan, pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, mixtures thereof, and derivatives thereof. Preferably the serotonin agonist is sumatriptan (3-(2-(dimethylamino)ethyl)-N-methyl-1H-indole-5-methanesulfonamide), one of its salts or derivatives. For migraine use, the additional drug(s) may further comprise an ergot alkaloid, such as for example and without limitation bromocriptine, ergocristine, ergocristinine, ergotamine, ergotaminine, ergocryptine, ergocryptinine, ergocornine, ergocorninine, ergosine, ergosinine, ergonovine, ergometrinine, dihydroergotamine, lisuride, d-lysergic acid, d-isolysergic acid, lysergol, lergotrile, metergoline, methysergide, methylergonovine pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, mixtures thereof, and derivatives thereof. Preferably the ergot alkaloid is ergotamine, dihydroergotamine, methysergide, salts, derivatives, active metabolites or prodrugs thereof e.g., dihydroergotamine mesylate. As used herein, the identification of an agent(s) to be delivered includes not only the ergot alkaloid per se but also its topically administrable prodrugs, active metabolites and prodrugs of the active metabolites.

In certain embodiments of the present invention, the serotonin agonist is in an amount of from about 0.5 mg to about 200 mg, preferably the serotonin agonist is in an amount of from about 0.5 mg to about 100 mg, and most preferably from about 10 mg to about 100 mg. In certain preferred embodiments, the formulations of the present invention contain sumatriptan base or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof (e.g., sumatriptan succinate). When the serotonin agonist is sumatriptan or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, the amount of sumatriptan is in an amount of from about 0.5 mg to about 200 mg, preferably in an amount of from about 5 mg to about 200 mg, from about 5 mg to about 100 mg, from about 5 mg to about 50 mg, or from about 5 mg to about 25 mg, and most preferably is in an amount of 12.5 mg, 25 mg, 50 mg or 100 mg. Comparative oral doses of certain triptans are as follows: sumatriptan, 50 mg; rizatriptan, 10 mg; naratriptan, 2.5 mg; zolmitriptan, 2.5 mg; and eletriptan, 40 to 80 mg. Therefore, one skilled in the art can readily determine therapeutically equivalent doses of serotonin agonists that may be useful in the present invention.

In other embodiments, the additional drug(s) is a skeletal muscle relaxant. Useful skeletal muscle relaxants include centrally acting skeletal muscle relaxants, and are not limited to for example and without limitation, afloqulone, baclofen, botulin toxins, carisoprodol, chlormezanone, chlorphenesin carbamate, chlorzoxazone, cyclobenzaprine, clonazepam, diazepam, eperisone, idrocilamide, inaperisone, mephenesin, mephenoxalone, methocarbamol, metaxalone, mivacurium chloride, orphenadrine, phenprobamate, pridinol mesylate, quinine, tetrazepam, thiocolchicoside, tizanidine, tolperisone, pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, active metabolites thereof, prodrugs thereof and mixtures thereof. Preferably the skeletal muscle relaxant is tizanidine base, tizanidine hydrochloride or any pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, prodrugs thereof or mixtures thereof. In certain preferred embodiments where the skeletal muscle relaxant is tizanidine, the amount of tizanidine included in the formulation is from about 1 mg to about 10 mg, preferably about 5 mg. One skilled in the art can readily determine therapeutically equivalent doses of other skeletal muscle relaxants such as those mentioned herein that may be useful in the present invention.

In certain embodiments, the topical formulation is used to treat insomnia, and a therapeutically effective amount of caryophyllene and a therapeutically effective amount of melatonin. The therapeutically effective amount of melatonin may be, for example, from about 0.05 mg to about 30 mg, and in certain preferred embodiments about 5 mg.

In certain embodiments, the topical formulation is used to treat Parkinson's disease, tremors and/or dystonia. In such embodiments, the topical formulation comprises a therapeutically effective amount of caryophyllene and a therapeutically effective amount of apomorphine. The therapeutically effective amount of apomorphine may be, for example, from about 0.25 mg to about 4 mg, and in certain preferred embodiments about 2 mg.

In certain embodiments, the topical formulation is used to treat ADD/ADHD and/or Tourette's syndrome. In such embodiments, the topical formulation comprises a therapeutically effective amount of caryophyllene and a therapeutically effective amount of phentermine. The therapeutically effective amount of phentermine may be, for example, from about 5 mg to about 40 mg, and in certain preferred embodiments about 10 mg.

In certain embodiments, the topical formulation is used to treat anxiety and panic attacks, or mood disorders. In such embodiments, the topical formulation may comprise a therapeutically effective amount of caryophyllene and a therapeutically effective amount of an antidepressant (such as milnacipran or another serotonin-norepinephrin reuptake inhibitor (SNRI). The therapeutically effective amount of milnacipran may be, for example, from about 12.5 mg to about 100 mg, and in certain preferred embodiments about 25 mg.

In certain embodiments, the topical formulation is used to treat diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) and other peripheral neuropathic conditions. In such embodiments, the topical formulation may comprise a therapeutically effective amount of carylophyllene and a therapeutically effective amount of 4-aminopyridine or a therapeutically active derivative thereof. The therapeutically effective amount of 4-aminopyridine may be, for example, from about 5 mg to about 40 mg, and in certain preferred embodiments about 10 mg.

In certain embodiments, the topical formulation is used to treat spasticity and/or spasms. In such embodiments, the topical formulation may comprise a therapeutically effective amount of caryophyllene and a therapeutically effective amount a dopamine agonist (e.g., apomorphine). The therapeutically effective amount of dopamine agonist may be, for example, from about 0.25 mg to about 4 mg, and in certain preferred embodiments about 2 mg. One skilled in the art can readily determine therapeutically equivalent doses of other dopamine agonists such as those mentioned herein that may be useful in the present invention.

In certain embodiments, the topical formulation is used to great migraine and/or tension headache. In such embodiments, the topical formulation may comprise a therapeutically effective amount of caryophyllene and a therapeutically effective amount of a dopamine agonist such as sumatriptan and (optionally) a skeletal muscle relaxant (e.g., tizanidine). The therapeutically effective amount of skeletal muscle relaxant may be, for example, from about 0.25 mg to about 50 mg, and in certain preferred embodiments about 5 mg. One skilled in the art can readily determine therapeutically equivalent doses of other skeletal muscle relaxants such as those mentioned herein that may be useful in the present invention.

Formulations

All currently approved therapies for the conditions described above reach the central nervous system through the systemic circulation. Cerebral blood flow to brainstem structures is through the posterior circulation, via the vertebral and basilar arteries and their branches. In view of the undesirable side-effects associated with this form of drug delivery to the brain, it makes sense that targeted regional delivery to the brainstem is sought. Topical delivery of currently used drugs compounded in an appropriate “dermal penetration enhancer” and applied in cream/gel form or as a sustained-release patch at the posterior cervical region (back of the neck) at the hairline is such a method. Lipoderm® is an example of an effective commercially available compounding medium. However, one skilled in the art will recognize that topical carriers meeting the specific chemical requirements of an individual drug can be formulated for maximum efficiency in topical delivery. Another example of an effective commercially available compounding medium is a liposomal base such as liposomal base commercially available from LETCO Medical Decatur, Ala. In embodiments where the caryophyllene is incorporated into a topical foam, a commercially available lipophilic foam base solution may be used. An example of such a formulation is Espumil™, a lipophilic foam base solution where the foam is generated by a foam-activating dispenser. The delivery features of Espumil™ assure simple application of lipophilic active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) on difficult-to-treat areas, like hairy skin and the scalp, without dripping. This product is free of fragrances, dyes, parabens, mineral oil, SLS and 1,4-dioxane and is gently preserved. Its Ingredients are purified water, alcohol, humectant, acidifying agent, emulsifier, foaming agent, and an antioxidant.

The formulations of the present invention are prepared such that the drug(s) may be delivered acutely as single dose applications as cream/gel/ointment or as a sustained release topical patch, depending on the condition treated and associated symptom complex in the individual patient. The critical point, again, is in the location of the application: at the back of neck at the hair-line for access to posterior cervical afferents with free nerve endings under the surface of the skin. Through feedback connections with vagal and trigeminal afferent systems, this results in ultimate effect on brainstem structures.

By virtue of the method of treatment described herein, the disease state/condition to be treated may be treated much faster and more effectively than such prior art modes of administration.

In certain embodiments of the present invention, the method of treating a human patient comprises applying a topical formulation which comprises a drug suitable for topical administration, which is useful for the treatment of a disease state or condition treatable via the topical brainstem afferent stimulation (de-afferentation) drug therapy described herein.

The methods of the present invention may also, if desired, involve pre-treatment of the skin with an enhancer to increase the permeability of the skin to the applied drug. The methods of the present invention may include pre-treatment or “prepping” of the skin area with a substance that opens up the skin pores. Additionally, the methods of the present invention may include, if desired, pre-treatment or “prepping” of the skin with an alcohol swab or the like to rid the area of dirt, make-up, oil, and the like, prior to application of the drug.

In certain embodiments, the topical formulation of the present invention comprises a drug in an amount which is therapeutically effective when administered topically at the at the back of neck at the hair-line for access to posterior cervical afferents with free nerve endings under the surface of the skin, but which provides a plasma concentration which is sub-therapeutic if orally administered.

In certain embodiments, by applying the formulation of the present invention comprising a dose of drug at the back of neck at the hair-line for access to posterior cervical afferents with free nerve endings under the surface of the skin, it may be possible for the use of lower doses of drug or faster relief of the headache than if applied to the trunk or limbs of a human patient, and the lower plasma levels of drug which result from lower doses may thereby reduce unwanted side effects of the drug.

The topical formulations of the present invention (e.g., ointment, gel, cream, or the like), must be suitable for topical administration of a drug, i.e., must contain pharmaceutically acceptable excipients compatible with application to the skin tissue, and may optionally contain a sufficient amount of an enhancer composition as described hereinafter.

In certain embodiments, in addition to the drug (e.g., caryophyllene), the topical formulations and/or transdermal therapeutic systems of the present invention may include at least one adjuvant such as a penetration enhancer, anti-oxidant, stabilizer, carrier, or vehicle. Additionally or alternatively, the present invention may include the application of electric current (iontophoresis) for enhancing permeation of the drug(s).

Suitable penetration enhancers useful in the formulations of the present invention include but are not limited to isostearic acid, octanoic acid, oleic acid, oleyl alcohol, lauryl alcohol, ethyl oleate, isopropyl myristate, butyl stearate, methyl laurate, diisopropyl adipate, glyceryl monolaurate, tetrahydrofurfuryl alcohol polyethylene glycol ether, polyethylene glycol, propylene glycol, 2-(2-ethoxyethoxy)ethanol, diethylene glycol monomethyl ether, diethylene glycol monoethyl ether, alkylaryl ethers of polyethylene oxide, polyethylene oxide monomethyl ethers, polyethylene oxide dimethyl ethers, dimethyl sulfoxide, glycerol, ethyl acetate, acetoacetic ester, N-alkylpyrrolidone, and terpenes.

In certain embodiments, the topical formulations comprising a drug in an ointment, gel, cream or the like, will typically contain on the order of about 0.001 to about 80% by weight, preferably 0.01 wt. % to 50 wt. % drug (i.e., caryophyllene) plus optional additional drugs as described herein), and about 0 wt. % to about 50.0 wt. %, preferably from about 1 wt. % to about 30 wt. % of a permeation enhancer composition, with the remainder of the composition comprising a carrier or vehicle. In certain preferred embodiments, the drug is included in a cream or gel or ointment in a concentration of, e.g., 1 mg drug/ml of carrier (e.g., Lipoderm). However, it is to be understood that one skilled in the art can increase the amount of carrier or change the carrier and maintain or improve efficacy of the topical formulation for TRNA therapy. In certain preferred embodiments, the drug is applied as a unit dose at the back of the neck or at the BONATH in immediate release form (e.g., cream, ointment or gel) for acute treatment with a caryophyllene as would be beneficial to a human patient. In such instances, it is preferred that the concentration of caryophyllene included in the unit dose is from about 3 mg to about 200 mg.

In certain embodiments, the topical formulations comprising a caryophyllene with or without additional drugs (collectively referred to herein as “drug(s)”) in an ointment, gel, cream or the like, will typically contain on the order of about 0.001 to about 80% by weight, preferably 0.01 wt. % to 50 wt. % drug(s) or from about 0.5% to about 5% drug(s); and about 0 wt. % to about 50.0 wt. %, preferably from about 1 wt. % to about 30 wt. % of a permeation enhancer composition, with the remainder of the composition comprising a carrier or vehicle. In certain preferred embodiments, the drug comprises caryophyllene and is included in a cream or gel or ointment in a concentration of, e.g., 1 mg drug/ml of carrier (e.g., Lipoderm). However, it is to be understood that one skilled in the art can increase the amount of carrier or change the carrier and maintain or improve efficacy of the topical formulation for TRNA therapy.

Suitable (optional) permeation enhancers may also be included in the formulations. Such enhancers include, but are not limited to, dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO), N,N-dimethylacetamide (DMA), decylmethylsulfoxide (C10 MSO), polyethylene glycol monolaurate (PEGML), propylene glycol (PG), PGML, glycerol monolaurate (GML), lecithin, the 1-substituted azacycloheptan-2-ones, particularly 1-n-dodecylcyclazacycloheptan-2-one (available under the trademark Axone® from Whitby Research Incorporated, Richmond, Va.), alcohols, and the like. The permeation enhancer may also be a vegetable oil as described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,229,130 to Sharma. Such oils include, for example, safflower oil, cotton seed oil and corn oil.

Additional optional enhancers for use in conjunction with the present invention are lipophilic compounds having the formula [RCOO]n R′, wherein n is 1 or 2 and R is C1-C16 alkyl optionally substituted with 1 or 2 hydroxyl groups, and R′ is hydrogen or C1-C16 alkyl optionally substituted with 1 or 2 hydroxyl groups. Within this group, a first subset of compounds are represented by the formula [CH3 (CH 2)m COO]n R′ in which m is an integer in the range of 8 to 16, n is 1 or 2, and R′ is a lower alkyl (C1-C3) residue that is either unsubstituted or substituted with one or two hydroxyl groups. Preferred enhancers within this group include an ester which is a lower alkyl (C1-C3) laurate (i.e., m is 10 and n is 1) such as “PGML”. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the commercially available material sold as “PGML” is typically although not necessarily a mixture of propylene glycol monolaurate itself, propylene glycol dilaurate, and either propylene glycol, methyl laurate, or both. Thus, the terms “PGML” or “propylene glycol monolaurate” as used herein are intended to encompass both the pure compound as well as the mixture that is typically obtained commercially. Also within this group is a second subset of compounds, namely, esters of fatty alcohols represented by the formula CH3 (CH2)m-O—CO—CHR1 R2, in which R1 and R2 are independently hydrogen, hydroxyl, or lower alkyl (C1-C3), and m is as above. Particularly preferred enhancers within this group are lauryl lactate and myristyl lactate. In addition, a third subset of compounds within this group are analogous fatty acids, i.e., acids having the structural formula CH3 (CH2)m COOH where m is as above. A particularly preferred acid is lauric acid.

Other optional enhancer compositions are wherein a lipophilic compound as just described, particularly PGML is combined with a hydrophilic compound, such as a C2-C6 alkanediol. One preferred hydrophilic enhancer within this group is 1,3-butanediol. Such enhancer compositions are described in detail in PCT Publication No. WO 95/05137, published Feb. 23, 1995, herein incorporated by reference. Another hydrophilic enhancer that may be included in these compositions is an ether selected from the group consisting of diethylene glycol monoethyl ether (Transcutol) and diethylene glycol monomethyl ether. Such enhancer compositions are described in detail in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,053,227 and 5,059,426 to Chiang et al., the disclosures of which are herein incorporated by reference.

Other optional enhancer compositions may include mixture or combinations of any of the aforementioned enhancers, and the like.

One preferred topical formulation comprises the caryophyllene in oil, together with a suitable amount of a penetration enhancer, dimethyl sulfoxide and a base. For example, such a formulation may include the caryophyllene oil, and about 3 ml dimethyl sulfoxide in 30 g of base.

In certain preferred embodiments, the caryophyllene can be incorporated at a concentration of, e.g., from about 0.5% to about 5% of the topical formulation, preferably from about 1.5% to about 4%, and most preferably from about 2% to about 3% in certain embodiments. The unit dose of such a topical formulation would be, e.g., from about 0.5 g to about 1 g applied topically on the back of the neck of the human patient.

U.S. Patent Publication No. 20080112895, hereby incorporated by reference, describes a room temperature stable aqueous cannabinoid formulation comprising an effective amount of a cannabinoid in a semi-aqueous solution buffered to a pH of about 5-1, the solution comprising water and an effective amount of an organic cosolvent to maintain the physical stability of the formulation, which may be incorporated into a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.

In certain embodiments the topical formulation may include at least one water-insoluble, pharmacologically approved, alkyl cellulose or hydroxyalkyl cellulose, and the like. Alkyl cellulose or hydroxyalkyl cellulose polymers for use in this invention include ethyl cellulose, propyl cellulose, butyl cellulose, cellulose acetate, hydroxypropyl cellulose, hydroxybutyl cellulose, and ethylhydroxyethyl cellulose, alone or in combination. In addition, a plasticizer or a cross linking agent may be used to modify the polymer's characteristics. For example, esters such as dibutyl or diethyl phthalate, amides such as diethyldiphenyl urea, vegetable oils, fatty acids and alcohols such as acid oleic and myristyl may be used in combination with the cellulose derivative.

In certain embodiments, the topical formulation may further include hydrocarbons such as liquid paraffin, qualene, solid paraffin, microcrystalline wax, etc.; higher aliphatic alcohols such as cetyl alcohol, hexadecyl, alcohol, stearyl alcohol, oleyl alcohol, etc.; esters of higher fatty acids with higher alcohols such as beeswax, etc.; esters of higher fatty acids with lower alcohols such as isopropyl m.yristate, isopropyl palmitate, etc.; vegetable oils, modified vegetable oils, hydrous lanolin and its derivative, squalene, 47qualene; higher fatty acids such as palmitic acid, stearic acid, etc. and the like.

In certain embodiments, the topical formulation may further include emulsifiers and dispersing agents which include, for example, anionic, cationic and nonionic surfactants. Nonionic surfactants are preferred because of their low levels of irritation to skin. Typical of nonionic surfactants are fatty acid monoglycerides such as glyceryl monostearate, etc.; sorbitan fatty acid esters such as sorbitan monolaurate, etc.; sucrose fatty acid esters; polyoxyethylene fatty acid esters such as polyoxyethylene stearate, etc.; and polyoxyethylene higher alcohol ethers such as polyoxyethylene cetyl ether, polyoxyethylene oleyl ether, etc.

In certain preferred embodiments, the topical TRNA formulation is aqueous-based.

In certain embodiments of the present invention, the topical formulation may include a gelling agent such as methylcellulose, ethylcellulose, hydroxyethylcellulose, hydroxypropyl-cellulose, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose, carboxymethylcellulose, carbomer, and the like. Examples of pharmaceutical compositions which rely upon an aqueous gel composition as a vehicle for the application of a drug are U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,883,660; 4,767,619; 4,511,563; 4,861,760; and 5,318,780, the disclosures of which are herein incorporated by reference.

The topical formulation may further ide one or more preservatives, stabilizers, or anti-oxidants.

Examples of preservatives that may be used in a formulation according to the present invention include, but are not limited to, bacteriostatic compounds and other preservatives suitable for topical administration including various alcohols, sorbic acid and salts and derivatives thereof, ethylenediamine, monothioglycerol, and thimerosal.

Examples of stabilizers that may be present in a formulation according to the present invention include pH buffers suitable for topical administration, compleximg agents, chelating agents and the like.

Examples of anti-oxidants that may be used in a formulation according to the present invention include ascorbic acid and its derivatives, e.g., ascorbyl palmitate, as well as butylated hydroxyanisole, butylated hydroxytoluene, sodium bisulfite, sodium metabisulfite, and others.

Other adjuvants that may be included in the drug formulation include carriers, tackifiers, pigments, dyes, and other additives that do not adversely affect the mechanical or adhesive properties of the formulation.

“Carriers” or “vehicles” as used herein refer to carrier materials suitable for transdermal drug administration, and include any such materials known in the art, e.g., any liquid, gel, emulsion, solvent, liquid diluent, solubilizer, or the like, which is nontoxic and which does not interact with other components of the composition in a deleterious manner. The term “carrier” or “vehicle” as used herein may also refer to stabilizers, crystallization inhibitors, dispersing agents or other types of additives useful for facilitating transdermal drug delivery. It will be appreciated that compounds classified as “vehicles” or “carriers” may sometimes act as permeation enhancers, and vice versa, and, accordingly, these two classes of chemical compounds or compositions may sometimes overlap.

Carrier materials suitable for use in the instant compositions include those well-known for use in the cosmetic and medical arts as bases for ointments, lotions, salves, aerosols, suppositories and the like. Suitable carriers include, for example, water, liquid alcohols, liquid glycols, liquid polyalkylene glycols, liquid esters, liquid amides, liquid protein hydrolysates, liquid alkylated protein hydrolysates, liquid lanolin and lanolin derivatives, and like materials commonly employed in cosmetic and medicinal compositions. Other suitable carriers herein include for example alcohols, including both monohydric and polyhydric alcohols, e.g., ethanol, isopropanol, glycerol, sorbitol, 2-methoxyethanol, diethyleneglycol, ethylene glycol, hexyleneglycol, mannitol, and propylene glycol; ethers such as diethyl or dipropyl ether; polyethylene glycols and methoxypolyoxyethylenes (carbowaxes having molecular weight ranging from 200 to 20,000); polyoxyethylene glycerols, polyoxyethylene sorbitols, stearoyl diacetin, and the like. In certain preferred embodiments, the carrier is an aqueous based cannabidiol cream is produced using Lipoderm® as the carrier. Lipoderm®/LIP is a whitish cream with no smell, commercially marketed compounding agent (from PCCA, Pharmaceutical Compounding Centers of America) having the following ingredients: Ethoxydiglycol, Water (Aqua), Glycerin, C₁₂₋₁₅Alkyl Benzoate, Glyceryl Stearate, Dimethicone, Cetearyl Alcohol, Cetearyl Glucoside, Polyacrylamide, Cetyl Alcohol, Magnesium Aluminum Silicate, Xanthan Gum, Aloe Vera (Aloe Barbadensis), Tocopherol Acetate (Vitamin E Acetate), Prunus Amygadalus Amara (Bitter Almond) Kernel Oil, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Extract, Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Oil, Retinyl Palmitate (Vitamin A Palmitate), Ascorbyl Palmitate (Vitamin C Palmitate), Pro-Lipo Multi-emulsion Liposomic System, Tetrasodium EDTA, Phenoxyethanol, and Sodium Hydroxymethylglycinate.

In certain embodiments of the invention, part or all of the dose of caryophyllene may be encapsulated within liposomes as described in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2015/0302148, hereby incorporated by reference. For example, fast-acting liposomal and micelle formulations of caryophyllene may be prepared by (a) dissolving caryophyllene in ethanol to obtain an ethanol caryophyllene solution; (b) adding a phospholipid to the ethanol caryophyllene solution to obtain an ethanol-phospholipid cannabinoid solution; (c) injecting the ethanol-phospholipid caryophyllene solution into distilled water to obtain a liposomal caryophyllene suspension; and (d) removing the ethanol from the liposomal caryophyllene suspension, thereby producing a stable liposomal suspension. In certain embodiments, the method further comprises the step of adding sodium alginate to the liposomal suspension to obtain an alginate liposomal caryophyllene suspension that has a final alginate concentration of 2% w/v, followed by the addition of calcium chloride to the alginate liposomal cannabinoid suspension to obtain a calcium alginate-encapsulated liposomal caryophyllene suspension. This suspension is then cold-pressed and air-dried to remove the water so as to obtain a dry caryophyllene powder. The dry caryophyllene powder can be re-suspended in citrate buffer to obtain an aqueous caryophyllene solution. The amount of caryophyllene in the aqueous solution may be, e.g., greater than 40%.

In certain preferred embodiments of the present invention where it is desired that the drug is administered chronically, the formulations of the present invention may be formulated as a transdermal delivery system (also referred to herein as a transdermal therapeutic system) such as a transdermal patch, a transdermal plaster, a transdermal disc, iontophoretic transdermal device, or the like. Such formulations are recognized by those skilled in the art as providing a release of drug and absorption into the skin of the patient in a sustained manner over an extended period of time (e.g., 1-7 days). In such embodiments of the present invention, the transdermal delivery system comprises, e.g., caryophyllene with or without an additional therapeutically effective active agent(s) (drug) as described herein contained in a reservoir or a matrix, and an adhesive which allows the transdermal patch to adhere to the skin, allowing the passage of the active agent from the transdermal patch through the skin of the patient. In preferred embodiments, the transdermal patch is applied topically at the back of the neck so as to achieve topical regional neuro-affective therapy (“TRNA THERAPY”) as described herein. In embodiments in which the drug is contained in a transdermal patch, it is contemplated that the drug will be absorbed more slowly and the transdermal patch will provide a sustained release and prolonged therapeutic effect, as compared, e.g., to a cream or ointment intended to provide an immediate release of the drug and rapid onset of the TRNA therapy. In such embodiments, the dose of caryophyllene may be that which is sufficient to provide a therapeutically effective dose to the back of the neck (e.g., non-systemic dose) over the course of e.g., from about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 or 7 days. In certain embodiments, the dose of caryophyllene contained in the transdermal delivery system is from about 120 mg to about 1000 mg. As there are only a finite number of receptors on the skin, once these receptors are bound, the rest of the active drug is contained in the (e.g., topical) preparation is superfluous. Therefore, there is no possibility of “over-dosing,” only of extra drug of potentially irritating the skin surface. Accordingly, in preferred embodiments, the methods and formulations of the present invention provide reduced side effects as compared to a systemic administration of the same drug.

In certain embodiments, the transdermal delivery devices, as well as other transdermal delivery systems in accordance with the invention can be made in the form of an article such as a tape, a patch, a sheet, a dressing or any other form known to those skilled in the art. Generally the device will be in the form of a patch of a size suitable to deliver a unit dose of serotonin agonist through the skin. The drug may be introduced into a transdermal therapeutic system in different forms (solid, in solution, in dispersion); it may also be microencapsulated.

In certain embodiments the present invention provides a transdermal therapeutic system comprising caryophyllene in an amount that would provide sub-therapeutic plasma levels if administered orally, but is therapeutically effective when administered via transdermal delivery at the back of the neck.

A transdermal delivery system for use in accordance with the present invention can also be constructed with an enhancer composition and other ingredients described hereinabove with respect to the topical formulation. Preferably, the transdermal delivery system is formulated for the prolonged delivery of caryophyllene. The targeted skin flux for delivery of the caryophyllene can be achieved by adjusting vehicle composition and vehicle loading, as well as by adjusting the surface area through which the compositions are administered to skin.

In certain preferred embodiments, the transdermal delivery system (e.g., patch) is formulated to deliver from about 1 mg to about 200 mg caryophyllene per each 24 hours through the skin of the patient. In embodiments in which the transdermal delivery system is intended to be applied to the skin at the back of the neck for multiple days, the transdermal delivery system (e.g., patch) is formulated to provide a flux rate over the useful life of the system such that a similar amount (e.g., mean dose) is delivered on a daily basis until the system is removed and replaced with a fresh system.

The transdermal delivery system used in the present invention may be prepared, for example, in accordance with U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,069,909; 4,806,341; 5,026,556; 4,588,580; 5,016,652; 3,598,122; 4,144,317; 4,201,211; 4,262,003; and 4,379,454; all of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Additionally, the transdermal delivery system used in the present invention may be in accordance with U.S. Pat. No. 6,689,379, hereby incorporated by reference, which system is a matrix or reservoir system which comprises at least one pharmaceutical active agent and a pressure-sensitive adhesive comprising a polyacrylate polymer, wherein said polyacrylate polymer has a polyacrylate backbone containing monomer units selected from the group consisting of acrylic acid, methacrylic acid and ester derivatives of acrylic or methacrylic acid, and said monomer units comprise at least 50% (w/vv) relative to a mean polymer mass of said polyacrylate polymer, a total amount of monomers selected from the group consisting of non-esterified acrylic acid and non-esterified methacrylic acid is 0.5 to 10.0% (w/w) relative to the mean polymer mass of said polyacrylate polymer, and the carboxyl groups of said non-esterified acrylic and methacrylic acid monomers are present stoichiometrically at 5 to 100% in the form of alkali salts or alkaline-earth salts, said salts being reaction products of a neutralization reaction of an alcoholic solution of an alkaline hydroxide or an alkaline-earth hydroxide with said acrylate polymer(s), or of a neutralization reaction of an alkali alcoholate or an alkaline-earth alcoholate with said acrylate polymer(s).

In certain embodiments, the dosage form can be a transdermal patch comprising a laminated composite for administering the drug (e.g., cannabinoid drug(s)) to an individual transdermally comprising: (a) a polymer backing layer that is substantially impermeable to caryophyllene; and (b) a reservoir layer comprising a water-base acrylate pressure-sensitive adhesive, 1 to 12% by weight serotonin agonist and 2 to 25% by weight of a permeation enhancer comprising propylene glycol monolaurate in combination with capric acid or oleic acid, wherein the skin contact area of the composite is 10 to 100 cm2.

The dosage form can be a transdermal patch comprising (a) a polar solvent material selected from the group consisting of C3-C4 dials, C3-C6 triols, and mixtures thereof; and (b) a polar lipid material selected from the group consisting of fatty alcohol esters, fatty acid esters, and mixtures thereof; wherein said polar solvent material and said polar lipid material are present in a weight ratio of solvent material:lipid. material of from about 60:40 to about 99:1.

In certain embodiments, the dosage form also comprises a transdermal plaster comprising: (1) a film layer which comprises a polyester film of 0.5 to 4.9 microns thickness, 8 to 85 g/mm strength, respectively in the two directions intersecting substantially at right angles, 30 to 150% elongation, in the two directions intersecting substantially at right angles and an elongation ratio of A to B of 1.0 to 5.0, wherein A and B represent data in two directions intersecting at right angles, and A is greater than B, and wherein said polyester film comprises 0.01 to 1.0% by weight, based on the total weight of said polyester film, of solid fine particles in which (a) the average particle size is 0.001 to 3.0 microns, and (b) the average particle size is substantially not more than 1.5 times the thickness of said polyester film; and (2) an adhesive layer (a) which is composed of an adhesive containing said serotonin agonist and further wherein said adhesive layer (a) is laminated on said film layer over the surface in a 2 to 60 microns thickness.

In certain embodiments, the dosage form can be a transdermal disc comprising: (a) a backing layer which is substantially impervious to caryophyllene; and (b) a polymer matrix disc layer which is adhered to said backing layer and which has microdispersed therein said serotonin agonist, said polymer being bioacceptable and permitting said serotonin agonist to be transmitted for transdermal absorption, caryophyllene being stable in said polymer matrix.

In certain embodiments, the topical formulation or transdermal therapeutic system may further comprise another active ingredient in combination with the first drug (e.g., as previously described herein).

The present invention is contemplated to encompass all transdermal formulations, e.g., the technologies described above, with the inclusion of caryophyllene, such that the administration of a drug useful for treatment of disease state or condition in humans via topical brainstem afferent stimulation (de-afferentation) therapy via topical administration. Therefore, modifications of the invention via, e.g., the choice and/or amount of drug are considered to be obvious variations of this disclosure and within the scope of the appended claims.

The present invention also contemplates the administration of the cannabinoid drug(s) directly below the skin to affect direct brainstem afferent stimulation to the free nerve endings under the epidermis. Such administration may be effected as an injection (e.g., subcutaneous injection) or implantation of the drug in immediate release or sustained release form. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that providing the drug in sustained release form and administering it in a suitable form below the skin may provide benefits, including less frequent administration (e.g., in chronic therapy).

In certain embodiments of the invention, caryophyllene can be formulated for controlled or sustained delivery at the back of the neck via incorporation into a biocompatible and implantable polymer which can be in the form of microparticles or an implantable insert, or a liquid that forms a gel or colloid or a semi-solid after injection (thereby encapsulating the drug and allowing it to be released in a prolonged and controlled manner at the desired site). For chronic conditions (e.g., Parkinson's) or desired prolonged effect, it is contemplated that a drug depot or reservoir may be created under the skin at the back of the neck, which then provides a sustained release of the drug in proximity to the desired nerve endings and which may be replenished or replaced at the end of the dosing interval. It is contemplated that such administrations of the drug may provide a prolonged therapeutic effect for at least about 3 days, preferably at least about 7 days, or longer. Such formulations may be administered in certain embodiments as, for example, a subcutaneous depot.

Implants are placed subcutaneously by making an incision in the skin and forcing the implants between the skin and the muscle. At the end of their use, if not dissolved, these implants are surgically removed. U.S. Pat. No. 4,244,949, hereby incorporated by reference, describes an implant which has an outer matrix of an inert plastic such as polytetrafluoroethylene resin. Examples of this type of implantable therapeutic system are Progestasert IUD and Ocusert system. It is contemplated that such systems can be appropriately modified by one skilled in the art for use in conjunction. with the present invention. A commercially available product, Norplant®, which is an implant having a core containing levonorgestrel as the active substance, and where the core it surrounded by a membrane of a silicone elastomer of poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS). Another preparation of this kind is Jadelle®, in which the core is a poly(dimethylsiloxane) based matrix with levonorgestrel dispersed therein. The membrane is an elastomer made from PDMS and silica filler, which, besides giving necessary strength properties to the membrane, also retards the permeation of the active agent through the membrane. U.S. Pat. No. 3,854,480, hereby incorporated by reference, describes a drug delivery device, e.g. an implant, for releasing a drug at a controlled rate for a prolonged period of time. The device has a core of a matrix in which the drug is dispersed. The core is surrounded by a membrane that is insoluble in body fluids. The core matrix as well as the membrane are permeable to the drug by diffusion. The materials of the core and the membrane are chosen so that the drug diffuses through the membrane at a lesser rate than through the core matrix. Thus, the membrane controls the release rate of the drug. As a suitable polymer for the core matrix is mentioned poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS), and as suitable polymers for the membrane are mentioned polyethylene and a copolymer of ethylene and vinyl acetate (EVA). It is contemplated that the above systems may be adapted by one skilled in the art to deliver caryophyllene in accordance with the present invention.

One device which may be adapted by one skilled in the art for use in the present invention is described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,968,542 (Tipton), hereby incorporated by reference, which describes a high viscosity liquid controlled delivery system as a medical or surgical device is provided that includes: (i) a non-polymeric, non-water soluble liquid carrier material (HVLCM) of viscosity of at least 5,000 Cp at 37° C. that does not crystallize neat under ambient or physiological conditions; and, optionally, (ii) substance to be delivered.

The pharmaceutical compositions suitable for injectable use in accordance with this invention include sterile aqueous solutions or dispersions and sterile powders or lyopholysates for the extemporaneous preparation of sterile injectable solutions or dispersions. The dosage forms must be sterile and it must be stable under the conditions of manufacture and storage. The carrier for injectable formulations is typically water but can also include ethanol, a polyol (for example, glycerol, propylene glycol and liquid polyethylene glycol), mixtures thereof, and vegetable oil.

Injectable formulations used in the present invention can also be formulated as injectable prolonged release formulations in which the active compound is combined with one or more natural or synthetic biodegradable or biodispersible polymers such as carbohydrates, including starches, gums and etherified or esterified cellulosic derivatives, polyethers, polyesters, polyvinyl alcohols, gelatins, or alginates. Such dosage formulations can be prepared for example in the form of microsphere suspensions, gels, or shaped polymer matrix implants that are well-known in the art for their function as “depot-type” drug delivery systems that provide prolonged release of the biologically active components. Such compositions can be prepared using art-recognized formulation techniques and designed for any of a wide variety of drug release profiles.

One example of a useful formulation which may be used in the methods of the present invention for providing a prolonged duration of action is described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,332,503 (Wikstrom, et al.), hereby incorporated by reference. Therein, apomorphine derivatives and the physiologically acceptable salts thereof as well as formulations thereof are described which provide a prolonged duration of action. The apomorphine pro-drugs can be suspended (as a neat oil or as crystals, or dissolved in a suitable and pharmaceutically acceptable solvent (e.g. water, ethanol, DMSO, i-PrOH or benzylbenzoate) in a pharmaceutically acceptable depot oil (e.g. viscoleo, sesame oil or olive oil) and injected subcutaneously or intramuscularly with a syringe or a “pen injector”. Alternatively, these drugs may, in a suitable composition and with a suitable vehicle (penetration enhancer), be applied to a patch for transdermal administration. The composition could include also a local anesthetic (e.g. lidocaine) to avoid injection pain, in particular at intramuscular injections. In one embodiment, the composition is in the form of a patch or an ointment for transdermal administration. The patch or ointment preferably also comprises stabilizers, solubilizers and permeation activators to facilitate the passage of the active principle through the skin. In another preferred embodiment, the composition is in the form of a depot preparation for subcutaneous or intramuscular administration comprising caryophyllene dissolved or suspended in an oil. In certain embodiments, in addition to the apomorphine derivative, the formulation further contains a local anesthetic. The formulations described in the '503 patent can be modified as understood by one skilled in the art to contain other active drugs as described herein for use at the hack of the neck, e.g., BONATH.

An injectable depot formulation is a dosage form, which is generally intended to have a therapeutic activity for 2 to 4 weeks after administration (e.g. in sesame oil). In order to maintain effective drug plasma levels the dosage form should release the drug at a more or less constant rate during the desired dosing interval. The difference between such prior art depots and depots used in the present invention is that the in accordance with the present invention, the drug is not needed to be absorbed into the systemic circulation.

A suitable form of depot preparation is the subcutaneous or intramuscular administration of an oil solution and/or oil suspension of a lipophilic drug. This gives a slow transport over the oil-biofluid interface and a slow dissolution in the biophase. Thus, when the drug is dissolved in a polar solvent (e.g. oils), which is non-miscible with the aqueous biological fluids, the drug has to be transported over the oil/water interface. When the oil/water partition coefficient is high, the transport will be slow. For very lipophilic drugs, the release from the oil phase may last for up to several weeks. The use of depot preparations such as those described herein may be used to deliver the drugs described herein at the back of the neck, e.g., BONATH.

The maximum volume of an oil solution/suspension to be injected intramuscularly or subcutaneously is 2-4 Ml. This is feasible for the preparations of the cannabinoid drug formulations of the present invention. For example, caryophyllene may be dissolved or dispersed in 1 Ml of an oil (sesame oil, Viscoleo or another approved oil) and the mixture gently heated (max 50° C.) shaken in a test tube shaker and ultrasonicated for a short time (minutes) until the mixture becomes a homogeneous solution or suspension. If necessary, caryophyllene may first be dissolved in 50-300 μl DMSO, water, t-BuOH, PEG, benzylbenzoate, or another suitable and approved solvent or mixtures thereof, before adding the oil to a total volume of 1 Ml.

Another example of a polymeric drug delivery system which may be adapted for use in the present invention by one skilled in the art is described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,601,835 (Sabel, et al.), hereby incorporated by reference, which describes a polymeric drug delivery system for delivery of any substance to the central nervous system. The delivery system is preferably implanted in the central nervous system for delivery of the drug directly to the central nervous system. These implantable devices can be used, for example, to achieve continuous delivery of dopamine, which cannot pass the blood brain barrier, directly into the brain for an extended time period. The implantable devices display controlled, “zero-order” release kinetics, a life time of a minimum of several weeks or months even when the devices contain water soluble, low molecular weight compounds, biocompatibility, and relative non-invasiveness. The polymeric devices are said to be applicable in the treatment of a variety of central nervous system disorders including Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's dementia, Huntington's disease, epilepsy, trauma, stroke, depression and other types of neurological and psychiatric illnesses, and one skilled in the art can adapt that drug delivery system for delivering the drugs contemplated herein at the hack of the neck, e.g., BONATH.

Yet another example of a system that may be adapted for use in the present invention is described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,601,835 (Sabel, et al.), hereby incorporated by reference, wherein an active compound is encapsulated within a polymer to form a polymeric device, the device formed of a biocompatible polymer that is plastically deformable selected from the group consisting of ethylene vinyl acetate, polyurethanes, polystyrenes, polyamide, polyacrylamide, and combinations thereof having a non-porous polymer coating thereon with one or more openings, with limited water sorptivity and slight permeability to the passage of small, aqueous-soluble molecules, wherein said compound is linearly released (e.g., zero order release) from said polymeric device over a sustained period of time of at least 65 days at a predetermined level and rate when implanted in a patient at a specific site within the central nervous system where the compound is released directly into the central nervous system and the device remains essentially intact throughout the release period. The delivery device is a two-phase system that is manufactured using standard techniques such as blending, mixing or the equivalent thereof, following selection of the biologically active material to be delivered and an appropriate polymer for formation of the matrix. The general method of solvent casting as disclosed by Siegel and Langer, “Controlled release of polypeptides and other macromolecules”, Pharmaceutical Research 1, 2-10 (1984), is modified so that drug is dispersed within the devices to create channels and pores to the surface for release of the drug at the desired rate. Where appropriate, a coating impermeable to the drug is placed over a portion of the drug containing polymer matrix to further regulate the rate of release. One skilled in the art can adapt that drug delivery system for delivering the drugs contemplated herein at the back of the neck, e.g., BONATH.

Yet another formulation which may used to deliver the drug as set forth in the present invention at the back of the neck, e.g., BONATH, is described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,314,636 (Caseres et al.), hereby incorporated by reference, which describes injectable implants comprising glycolic acid and bio-compatible/bio-absorbable polymeric particles containing polymer of lactic acid. The particles are small enough to be injected through a needle but large enough to avoid engulfment by macrophages. The injectables of this invention may be in a pre-activated solid form or an activated form (e.g., injectable suspension or emulsion).

It is further contemplated that the system described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,586,006 (Roser, et al.), hereby incorporated by reference, can be adapted by one skilled in the art for use in the present invention for delivery of drugs at the back of the neck, e.g., BONATH. Therein are described delivery systems suitable for delivery of bioactive materials to subcutaneous and intradermal, intramuscular, intravenous tissue, the delivery system being sized and shaped for penetrating the epidermis. The delivery systems comprise a vitreous vehicle loaded with the guest substance and capable of releasing the guest substance in situ at various controlled rates. Subdermal implantable therapeutic systems have also been formulated for slow release of certain pharmaceutical agents for extended periods of time such as months or years. A well-known example is Norplant® for delivery of steroid hormones.

In membrane permeation-type controlled drug delivery, the drug is encapsulated within a compartment that is enclosed by a rate-limiting polymeric membrane. The drug reservoir may contain either drug particles or a dispersion (or solution) of solid drug in a liquid or a matrix type dispersing medium. The polymeric membrane may be fabricated from a homogeneous or a heterogeneous nonporous polymeric material or a microporous or semipermeable membrane. The encapsulation of the drug reservoir inside the polymeric membrane may be accomplished by molding, encapsulation, microencapsulation, or other techniques. The implants release drugs by dissolution of the drug in the inner core and slow diffusion across the outer matrix. The drug release from this type of implantable therapeutic system should be relatively constant and is largely dependent on the dissolution rate of the drug in the polymeric membrane or the diffusion rate across or a microporous or semipermeable membrane. The inner core may substantially dissolve over time; however, in devices currently in use, the outer matrix does not dissolve.

Other implantable therapeutic systems involve matrix diffusion-type controlled drug delivery. The drug reservoir is formed by the homogeneous dispersion of drug particles throughout a lipophilic or hydrophilic polymer matrix. The dispersion of drug particles in the polymer matrix may be accomplished by blending the drug with a viscous liquid polymer or a semisolid polymer at room temperature, followed by cross-linking of the polymer, or by mixing the drug particles with a melted polymer at an elevated temperature. It can also be fabricated by dissolving the drug particles and/or the polymer in an organic solvent followed by mixing and evaporation of the solvent in a mold at an elevated temperature or under vacuum. The rate of drug release from this type of delivery device is not constant. Examples of this type of implantable therapeutic system are the contraceptive vaginal ring and Compudose implant. PCT/GB 90/00497 describes slow release glassy systems for formation of implantable devices. The described implants are bioabsorbable and need not be surgically removed. One skilled in the art can adapt these drug delivery systems for delivering the drugs contemplated herein at the back of the neck, e.g., BONATH.

In microreservoir dissolution-controlled drug delivery, the drug reservoir, which is a suspension of drug particles in an aqueous solution of a water-miscible polymer, forms a homogeneous dispersion of a multitude of discrete, unleachable, microscopic drug reservoirs in a polymer matrix. The microdispersion may be generated by using a high-energy-dispersing technique. Release of the drug from this type of drug delivery device follows either an interfacial partition or a matrix diffusion-controlled process. An example of this type of drug delivery device is the Syncro-Mate-C Implant.

Yet another formulation which may be adapted by one skilled in the art for use in the present invention is described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,576,263 (Truong, et al.), hereby incorporated by reference, which describes a preformed object for delivering an active agent for a subject, the preformed object including cross-linked protein, and methods of making and using.

Yet another formulation which may be adapted by one skilled in the art for use in the present invention is described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,287,588 (Shih, et al.), hereby incorporated by reference, which describes a composition and method for releasing a bio-active agent or a drug within a biological environment in a controlled manner. The composition is a dual phase polymeric agent-delivery composition comprising a continuous biocompatible gel phase, a discontinuous particulate phase comprising defined microparticles and an agent to be delivered. A microparticle containing a bio-active agent is releasably entrained within a biocompatible polymeric gel matrix. The bio-active agent release may be contained in the microparticle phase alone or in both the microparticles and the gel matrix. The release of the agent is prolonged over a period of time, and the delivery may be modulated and/or controlled. In addition, a second agent may be loaded in some of the microparticles and/or the gel matrix.

Yet another formulation which may be adapted by one skilled in the art for use in the present invention is described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,364,568 (Angel, et al.), hereby incorporated by reference, which describes a transdermal transport device includes a reservoir for holding a formulation of an active principle, and a needle with a bore extending along the length of the needle from a first end of the needle to a second end of the needle. The second end is substantially aligned to a plane parallel to a body surface of a biological body when the device is placed on the body surface. The device also includes an actuator which pumps the formulation through the bore of the needle between a target area of the body and the reservoir.

In yet other embodiments of the invention, the cannabinoid drug(s) is infused into the patient at the back of the neck using technology known to be useful for infusing other drugs, such as an insulin pump. One such system, U.S. Pat. No. 7,354,420 (Steil, et al.), hereby incorporated by reference, describes a closed loop infusion system controls the rate that fluid is infused into the body of a user. The closed loop infusion system includes a sensor system, a controller, and a delivery system. The sensor system includes a sensor for monitoring a condition of the user. The sensor produces a sensor signal, which is representative of the condition of the user. The sensor signal is used to generate a controller input. The controller uses the controller input to generate commands to operate the delivery system. The delivery system infuses a liquid into the user at a rate dictated by the commands from the controller. Preferably, the sensor system monitors the glucose concentration in the body of the user, and the liquid infused by the delivery system into the body of the user includes insulin.

The present invention is contemplated to encompass all implantable or injectable formulations, e.g., the technologies described above, with the inclusion of a drug(s) (e.g., cannabinoid drug(s)(s)), such that the administration of a drug useful for treatment of disease state or condition in humans via topical brainstem afferent stimulation (de-afferentation) therapy. Therefore, modifications of the invention via, e.g., the choice and/or amount of drug are considered to be obvious variations of this disclosure and within the scope of the appended claims.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The present invention will now be more fully described with reference to the accompanying examples. It should be understood, however, that the following description is illustrative only and should not be taken in any way as a restriction on the generality of the invention specified above.

Example 1 Topical Formulation

An aqueous based caryophyllene cream is produced using Lipoderm® as the carrier. Lipoderm®/LIP is a commercially marketed compounding agent (from PCCA, Pharmaceutical Compounding Centers of America) having the following ingredients: Ethoxydiglycol, Water (Aqua), Glycerin, C₁₂₋₁₅Alkyl Benzoate, Glyceryl Stearate, Dimethicone, Cetearyl Alcohol, Cetearyl Glucoside, Polyacrylamide, Cetyl Alcohol, Magnesium Aluminum Silicate, Xanthan Gum, Aloe Vera (Aloe Barbadensis), Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E Acetate), Prunus Amygadalus Amara (Bitter Almond) Kernel Oil, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Extract, Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Oil, Retinyl Palmitate (Vitamin A Palmitate), Ascorbyl Palmitate (Vitamin C Palmitate), Pro-Lipo Multi-emulsion Liposomic System, Tetrasodium EDTA, Phenoxyethanol, and Sodium Hydroxymethylglycinate. The concentration is 30 mg of caryophyllene in 1 g of Lipoderm. Lipoderm is a whitish cream with no smell.

Example 2

A 60 g topical formulation of caryophyllene is prepared by incorporating 1.8 g caryophyllene, 20 g Pluronic 20%, 40 g Carbomer hydroalcoholic gel and 1 ml ethyl alcohol to obtain a caryophyllene topical formulation having a 3% concentration of caryophyllene.

Example 3

A topical formulation is prepared by incorporating 1.8 g caryophyllene, 3 ml glycerine and enough liposomal base (commercially available from LETCO Medical Decatur, Ala.) for total quantity of 60 grams. The caryophyllene is present in the formulation in a 3% concentration, and may be administered topically in a 1 g amount. After initial application, the topical caryophyllene formulation can be applied to the back of the neck of the human patient once a day, twice a day, three times a day, or four times a day depending on the condition to be treated and its severity.

Example 4

A topical foam formulation of caryophyllene is prepared utilizing 1.8 g caryophyllene, and qs to 100 ml with Espumil™ (a lipophilic foam base solution where the foam is generated by a foam-activating dispenser).

Example 5

The following patients were treated with a topical caryophyllene formulation (referred to in Table 1 as “Cari-Derm”, which is a topical 3% caryophyllene formulation) administered on the back of the neck on human patients, as more specifically described below in Table 1. The 3% Cari-Derm formulation contained approximately 30 mg of caryophyllene in a unit dose (1 gram).

TABLE 1 Demographics Clinical Condition & Current Rx Clinical Results and Observations 1. 50 ADD and Anxiety Disorder. Had been on After topical 30 mg Cari- y/o female Vyvanse ® (lisdexanfetamine dimesylate), Derm, anxiety reduced from Strattera ® (atomoxetine HCl), Lamictal ® 8/10 to 5/10 and patient (lamotrigine), and Abilify ® (aripiprazole) became more focused. in past. *2. 68 s/p Auto Accident with Cervical 10-15 minutes after 30 mg y/o female Spondylosis, Disc Herniations, Muscle Cari-Derm, less muscle Spasms, and Anxiety, s/p steroid dose spasm and pain; more calm. pack with temporary relief Slight tingling sensation in sternum. *3. 58 s/p Intracranial aneurysm rupture with 15 Minutes after 30 mg Cari- y/o female Central Pain Syndrome, Central Derm, BP reduced from Hypertension, and Neck Pain. On 200/120 to 170/100; neck Tramadol, Klonopin ® (clonazepam), and head pain improved Tizanidine, and Soma ® (carisoprodol). 4. 51 Back Pain and Peripheral Neuropathic After Topical Cari-Derm, y/o female Pain pain in both areas significantly improved from 8/10 to 4/10. 5. 49 R.N. with Chronic Anxiety Disorder, After 30 mg Cari-Derm, y/o female PTSD. anxiety diminished from 10/10 to 4/10. *6. 59 MS with Cognitive Dysfunction, After Cari-Derm, thinking y/o female Complex Partial Seizures,; Neck and more clear, pain decreased Back Pain, Headache. On Vimpat ® by 40%. (lacosamide) and Cymbalta ® (duloxetine HCl). 7. 57 Dermatomyositis, Peripheral After30 mg Topical Cari- y/o female Neuropathic Pain, s/p recent Hip Derm, both pain and anxiety Replacement, Anxiety Disorder. On diminished. Lyrica ® (pregabalin), Cymbalta ® (duloxetine HCl), Xanax ® (alprazolam). *8. 25 History of Chronic Dizziness and Light- Topical Cari-Derm reduced y/o female Headedness; had been on Antivert ® (meclizine) symptoms of dizziness and and Klonopin ® (clonazepam) without benefit. light-headedness. 9. 73 Long History of Seizures and Right Knee After topical 30 mg Cari- y/o female Pain. On Keppra ® (levitiracetam) for Derm, EEG and knee pain seizures and Plavix ® (clopidogrel bisulfate) improved. for TIA's. 10. 55 Chronic Seizures and Encephalopathy 10-15 minutes after 30 mg y/o male with Lethargy and Decreased Cari-Derm, was more alert, Spontaneity. On Keppra ® (levitiracetam), responsive, and talkative. Lamictal ® (lamotrigine), Trileptal ® (oxcarbazepine), and Remeron ® (mirtazapine). 11.23 Autism and Seizures with Poor Vision 15 minutes after 30 mg Cari- y/o male and Focus. Had been on Adderall ® Derm, improved focus and (amphetamine, dextroamphetamine mixed salts) vision. and Ritalin ® (methylphenidate) without benefit; increased agitation *12. 80 Cervical Spondylosis, s/p sub-occipital After Topical Cari-Derm, y/o female craniotomy, and VP shunt for neck tension and pain hydrocephalus with neck pain. On diminished 50%. Zonisamide, Prozac ® (fluozetine HCl). 13. 67 Long history of Tinnitus/Ringing in Ears, After 30 mg Cari-Derm, y/o male Sinus Congestion, and Decreased sinus congestion relieved, Hearing Left Ear; using OTC anti- reduced tinnitus and histamines and decongestants. improved hearing. *,**14. 72 Seizures, Myasthenia Gravis, and After Cari-Derm, neck range y/o female Torticollis with Neck Pain. On Keppra ® of motion improved with less (levitriacetam), tapered off Mestinon ® pain. Adding topical apomorphine (pyridostigmine). improved further. 15. 29 Persistent Neuropathic Pain and Topical Cari-Derm resolved y/o female. Decreased Function after Dog Bite. Had pain and improved function. been on Lyrica ® (pregabalin) and CBD topical cream. *16. 69 Long History of Seizures and Tinnitus, After topical 30 mg Cari- y/o Male Right Ear Blockage Derm, ear popped open and tinnitus diminished, hearing improved. *17. 68 Chronic Sinus Congestion with Bilateral 10-15 minutes after 30 mg y/o female Eustachian Tube Blockage, Left > Right. Cari-Derm, sinuses opened with less sensation of blockage. 18. 68 Failed Back Syndrome s/p 2 Back After application of 30 mg y/o male Operations with Severe Cari-Derm to the back of Neuropathic pain in Lower Extremities: neck and lumbar spine, Left > Right, Insomnia. improved neuropathic pain in legs. 19. 54 Fibromyalgia with neuropathic pain right Neuropathic pain improved 70% y/o female elbow and arm for 1 month. within 15 minutes of 30 mg Cari- Derm to elbow and back of neck **20. 86 3 year history of Parkinson's disease Improved tremors, more y/o female with isolation, cognitive blunting, and focused and talkative after tremors of upper extremities: L. > R. Cari-Derm; further improved with Apomorphine 5 mg. 21. 82 Parkinson's disease with rigidity, slow Improved mobility after 30 mg y/o male movement with gait disorder. Cari-Derm *22. 16 Long history of migraine headaches, 15 minutes after Cari-Derm y/o male sinus congestion, and anxiety. 3% sinuses opened up and anxiety decreased. **23. 73 s/p head injury, cervical and thoracic After topical 30 mg Cari- y/o male laminectomy with poor focus, Dem, improved focus and impulsivity and gait problems from spontaneity, and gait. After Parkinson's. additional 5 mg Apomorphine, further improvement noted. 24. 46 Life long autism with schizoaffective After 30 mg Cari-Derm to y/o male disorder, poor focus and chronic anxiety the back of neck, improved with excessive sweating. anxiety, focus with diminished sweating, also noted on EEG. *25. 48 s/p concussion with visual problems, After 30 mg Cari-Derm, y/o female headaches, muscle tension and anxiety. improved vision, anxiety, focus with decreased tension and spasm. *26. 58 Encephalopathy, neck pain and 30 mg Cari-Derm to back of y/o female headaches with cognitive dysfunction. neck improved headache from 10 to 6/10, cognitive cloudiness improved. 27. 49 Chronic anxiety with crying and Less stressed and better able y/o female emotional upset, PTSD. to deal with emotional issues after Cari-Derm therapy. *28. 26 Seasonal allergies with sinus congestion 30 mg Cari-Derm opened y/o female and daily headaches sinus congestion and relieved headaches. *29. 58 s/p traumatic injury to right face with 30 mg Cari-Derm to back of y/o male persistent neuralgic pain and headaches. neck and right face decreased On Trileptal ® (oxycarbazepine), Gabapentin, neuropathic face pain and Diamox ® (acetazolamide), Cymbalta ® headache by additional 40%. (dulozetine HCl), and Misoprostol. *30. 78 s/p cervical fusion with daily headaches After topical 30 mg Cari- y/o female from temporal arteritis. Derm, improved neck range of motion, less pain. *31. 56 s/p numerous sinus operations with After 30 mg Cari-Derm to y/o female atypical facial pain/Trigeminal the back of neck and 15 mg Neuralgia for 6 months on Dilaudid ® to forehead, pain further (hydromorphone HCl), fentanyl patch. diminished over 80% from baseline. Now on 2x/day. *32. 47 long history of epilepsy and migraine Acute headache resolved y/o female headaches, on Keppra ® (levitiractam), within 10-15 minutes of 30 Gabapentin, Risperdone. mg at back of neck; also improved focus and anxiety. 33. 74 long history of Parkinson's disease, s/p Improved akisthesias and y/o female recent renal stones extraction with pain from kidney stones after persistent pain. 30 mg Cari-Derm. 34. 25 cerebral palsy with spastic quadriparesis, 30 mg Cari-Derm improved y/o male right > left; seizures with encephalopathy. spasticity and became more alert and interactive. *35. 24 chronic headaches and ADHD on 30 mg Cari-Derm helped y/o female Vyvanse ® (lisdexamfetamine dimesylate), relieve headache but felt Diamox ® (acetazolamide), and topical CBD worked better. CBD cream which works well for migraines. 36. 64 s/p vertebral artery dissection with Cari-Derm to back of neck y/o male posterior fossa stroke: right hemiparesis, improved visual symptoms nystagmus, opsillopsia, and dysarthria. and spasticity, speech. **37. 87 long history of Parkinson's disease on Cari-Derm and Apomorphine y/o male Sinemet ® (carbidopa-levodopa) 6-7x/day combination to back of neck with gait problems. improved gait and overall mobility. 38. 80 failed back syndrome, s/p lumbar Combination of 3% Cari- y/o male laminectomy with peripheral neuropathy Derm and 2 mg and narcotic dependency for pain Apomorphine improved back pain and gait, able to better control legs. 39. 41 neonatal nuchal cord syndrome with after 3% Cari-Derm, less y/o male chronic mood disorder, attentional anxious, focusing better, and issues, insomnia, and cognitive improved thought processes. processing. **40. 69 Parkinson's disease and tremors of hands: Cari-Derm and Apomorphine y/o female right > left, with tradive dyskinesias. On combination to back of neck Benadryl ® (diphenhydramine). improved tremors. *,**41. 47 s/p auto accident with head injury, Improved neck range of y/o male cervical and thoracic compression motion and less pain after fracture with neck spasm and pain. 3% Cari-Derm and 2 mg apomorphine combination to neck. 42. 68 lumbar radiculopathy and peripheral back pain and lower y/o male neuropathy extremity neuropathic pains improved after Cari-Derm 3%. *,**43. 58 long history of PTSD, fibromyalgia, and relief of headache by 60% y/o female tension headaches. with Cari-Derm and apomorphine combination to back of neck. 44. 4 primary generalized epilepsy with Cari-Derm 3% to back of y/o male agitation, attentional problems, and neck improved focus and impulsivity. On Keppra ® (levitiracetam) impulsivity. and Depakote ® (divalproex sodium). *45. 68 fibromyalgia, seizures, chronic pain with topical Cari-Derm 3% to y/o female numerous narcotics, metabolic back of neck improved head encephalopathy, headaches and pain and photophobia; more photophobia. alert and responsive. 46. 64 history of posterior fossa stroke and topical Cari-Derm 3% to y/o male vasculitis with headaches and neck pain. back of neck improved headache and neck pain 50% *47. 69 Trigeminal neuralgia with brain improved headache and neck y/o female hyperintensities; cervical spondylosis tension with 3% Cari-Derm.. with tension headaches. *48. 70 long history of migraines and cervical complete resolution of y/o female spondylosis with muscle tension headache and neck tension headaches. from 6/10 to 0/10 in 10 minutes after 3% Cari-Derm to neck. *49. 79 s/p cervical laminectomy with C5 15 minutes after Cari-Derm y/o male radiculopathy, muscle tension headaches, to neck and back, resolution failed back with right SI joint pain. of neck and back pain, headache. 50. 52 history of seizures with encephalopathy, after 30 mg Cari-Derm, less y/o female memory problems, focus issues, and anxiety. anxious and more alert and On Lamictal ® (lamotrigine), Nameda ® focused. (memantine), and Bystolic ® (nebivolol). 51. 80 20 yr. history of MS with weakness in Cari-Derm 3% to back of y/o female lower extremities, in wheelchair. On neck improved improved Avonex ® (interferon beta - 1a) 10 years. strength and movement in lower extremities. *52. 37 menstrual migraines since age 12 with topical Cari-Derm 3% to y/o female transformed daily headaches from back of neck completely acetaminophen (Extra Strength Exedrin ® resolved head pain and (acetaminophen, aspirin, caffeine)) photophobia; more alert and overuse. responsive. 53. 64 osteoporosis with recent lifting back topical Cari-Derm 3% to y/o female injury lower back improved back pain and mobility. 54. 48 history of seizures with recent closed Topical 3% Cari-Derm to y/o female head injury with poor focusing, cognitive back of neck improved EEG slowing, and peripheral neuropathic abnormalities and focus, symptoms. alertness. 55. 13 history of back and joint pain, 3% Cari-Derm to neck and y/o male fibromyalgia with hypotonia of muscles lower back alleviated back, knee, and ankle joint pains. **56. 69 history of MS with spasticity, gait 3% Cari-Derm and 5 mg y/o Female disturbance. apomorphine combination improved spasticity and gait 57. 20 history of generalized, nocturnal, and 3% Cari-Derm to back of the y/o male complex partial seizures with anxiety neck improved focus and disorder; also has tremors of the hands. tremors. *58. 45 childhood history of migraines with Cari-Derm 3% to back of y/o female recent recurrence after auto accident and neck improved headache and cervical sprain. neck muscle tension. 59. 79 ischemic cerebrovascular disease with topical Cari-Derm 3% to y/o female dementia and episodic memory loss, back of neck made her more inattention. alert and responsive, and interactive. *60. 72 neck pain, anxiety, and peripheral topical Cari-Derm 3% to y/o female neuropathy neck improved anxiety; and reduced neck tension and pain. 61. 80 history of MS, lumbar degenerative After topical Cari-Derm 3% y/o female disease, and bilateral knee pain, to the knee and back, left > right. improved mobility and pain. *62. 48 s/p 2 auto accidents with head injuries; Topical Cari-Derm 3% y/o female headaches, visual blurring, and cognitive improved vision and focus, dysfunction with poor focus. resolved headache. EEG improved background. *63. 68 PTSD, cervical spondylosis, with chronic topical Cari-Derm 3% y/o male tension headaches and migraines. improved neck ROM, muscle spasm and headaches. 64. 51 s/p auto accident with head injury, Topical Cari-Derm 3% to y/o female cervical sprain with headaches, neck back of neck improved neck spasms, and poor concentration. tension and headache. 65. 58 long history of MS with lower extremity Cari-Derm 3% to back of y/o female spasticity, s/p cervical fusion and lumbar neck and lower back laminectomy. improved pain and spasticity to extent able to walk better. 66. 49 PTSD, anxiety disorder. Topical Cari-Derm 3% to y/o female back of neck improved anxiety and resolved panic attack. 67. 7 Developmental delay, ADHD, anxiety topical Cari-Derm 3% to y/o Male with abnormal EEG. neck improved anxiety, improved focus; EEG background improved. *68. 56 migraine headaches, eye twitching, and After topical Cari-Derm 3% y/o female anxiety. to back of neck, improved headache and anxiety. *69. 68 lupus cerebritis, normal pressure Topical Cari-Derm 3% to y/o female hydrocephalus, seizures, and headaches back of neck improved vision with dizziness and visual blurring. and focus, resolved headache. 70. 64 bi-polar affective disorder, depression, topical Cari-Derm 3% to y/o male fatigue, and attentional problems. back of neck improved anxiety and focus. (*head pain, **combination therapy)

Example 6

Several combinations of caryophyllene and traditional compounds are formulated for topical therapy. These combinations are outlined below using either 2% or 3% caryophyllene, as set forth in Example 3.

The above 2% and 3% caryophyllene products are combined with traditionally used pharmaceutical compounds to produce the following:

2-3% caryophyllene+5 mg melatonin for insomnia.

2-3% caryophyllene+Apomorphine 2 mg for Parkinson's disease, tremors, dystonia.

2-3% caryophyllene+10 mg phentermine for ADD/ADHD and Tourette's.

2-3% caryophyllene+25 mg milnacipran (Savella®) for anxiety & panic attacks, mood disorders.

2-3% caryophyllene+4-AP (4-amino pyridine) 5 mg for DPN & other peripheral neuropathic conditions.

2-3% caryophyllene+4-AP 5 mg+apomorphine 2 mg for spasticity and spasms.

2-3% caryophyllene+sumatriptan+/−tizanidine 5 mg (optional active ingredient) for migraine, tension headache.

2-3% caryophyllene and 5 mg melatonin for insomnia.

2-3% caryophyllene and 2 mg apomorphine for spasticity, muscle spasm, tremor and Parkinson's disease.

2-3% caryophyllene and 5 mg 4-aminopyridine for stroke, MS, demyelinating disorders, and peripheral neuropathy.

2-3% caryophyllene and 25 mg sumatriptan for migraine attacks.

2-3% caryophyllene and 25 mg minacipran for seizures with anxiety and panic attacks.

2-3% caryophyllene and 10 mg phentermine for ADD/ADHD.

The above dosage levels are examples only. one skilled in the art will appreciate that the dosage levels may be varied for the additional agents, e.g., within at least the range of levels of these agents approved for other routes of administration. Further, the concentrations of caryophyllene are based on an expected unit dose of topical pharmaceutical formulation of about 1 gram. It is contemplated that higher or lower concentrations can be used, with the end result being that the dose of caryophyllene contained in the unit dose would be in the range from about 3 mg to about 200 mg, preferably from about 10 mg to about 40 mg, and in certain embodiments most preferably from about 15 mg to about 30 mg.

CONCLUSION

The examples provided above are not meant to be exclusive. Many other variations of the present invention would be obvious to those skilled in the art, and are contemplated to be within the scope of the appended claims.

The active agents may be incorporated into the topical formulations in therapeutically equivalent amounts. The actual dose of an active agent (relative potency) may be determined based on a comparative dose to a therapeutically effective dose of an active agent described herein. However, it is noted that the differences in oral doses may not directly correspond to the differences in doses that are therapeutically effective via transdermal delivery of the serotonin agonist. Factors such as metabolism of the serotonin agonist, the ability of the drug to pass through the skin, among others, may affect the amount of serotonin agonist necessary to provide a therapeutic effect. One skilled in the art would readily understand this and adjust for the same.

The hypotheses of the inventor provided throughout the specification are for possible explanation purposes only, and are not meant to be limiting in any way. 

The invention claimed is:
 1. A method treating fibromyalgia in a human patient, comprising topically administering caryophyllene in a therapeutically effective amount to the back of the neck region of a human patient suffering from fibromyalgia to provide regional neuro-affective therapy to the human patient.
 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the back of the neck region comprises the area or region extending from behind one ear to the other ear of the human patient and from the back of the head to below the hairline at the back of the neck of the human patient.
 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the caryophyllene is administered such that it is absorbed in an area at or above the skin where the afferent components of trigeminal nerve system, cervical sympathetic nerves, and vagus nerve are located.
 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the caryophyllene is administered in a topical pharmaceutical formulation in a unit dose containing a therapeutically effective amount of the caryophyllene.
 5. The method of claim 1, wherein the caryophyllene is administered in a topical pharmaceutical formulation at the back of the neck at the hairline of the human patient.
 6. The method of claim 1, wherein the caryophyllene is β-caryophyllene.
 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the caryophyllene is administered in a unit dose comprising from about 3 mg to about 50 mg caryophyllene.
 8. The method of claim 1, wherein the caryophyllene is administered in a unit dose comprising from about 15 mg to about 30 mg caryophyllene.
 9. The method of claim 4, wherein the unit dose comprises from about 10 mg to about 50 mg caryophyllene and the topical pharmaceutical formulation is in the form of a cream, gel, or foam.
 10. The method of claim 9, further comprising administering the topical pharmaceutical formulation from 1 to about 4 times daily.
 11. The method of claim 9, further comprising administering a unit dose of the topical pharmaceutical formulation from 1 to about 4 times per day.
 12. The method of claim 1, wherein the treatment further comprises topically administering to the back of the neck region together simultaneously or sequentially an additional drug(s) which can beneficially be added to the treatment in order to provide an additive or synergistic effect.
 13. A method of treating fibromyalgia in a human patient, comprising topically administering a unit dose comprising from about 3 mg to about 50 mg caryophyllene and a second therapeutically active drug to treat the fibromyalgia, to the back of the neck region of a human patient to provide regional neuro-affective therapy to the human patient.
 14. The method of claim 13, wherein the back of the neck region comprises the area or region extending from (behind) behind one ear to the other ear of the human patient and from the back of the head to below the hairline at the back of the neck of the human patient.
 15. The method of claim 13, wherein the caryophyllene and the second therapeutically active drug are administered such that they are absorbed in an area at or above the skin where the afferent components of trigeminal nerve system, cervical sympathetic nerves, and vagus nerve are located.
 16. The method of claim 13, wherein the second therapeutically active drug is selected from a triptan, melatonin, an analgesic, 4-AP, apomorphine, a cannabinoid, a skeletal muscle relaxant; and mixtures of any of the foregoing.
 17. The method of claim 13, wherein the caryophyllene is β-caryophyllene. 